Unruly parties impeding free, fair elections – Foundation


A Non-Government Organisation, Cleen Foundation, Monday said unruly conduct of political parties and politicians significantly impeded free, fair and credible elections in the country.

The foundation’s executive director, Dr Benson Olugbuo, said Monday in Abuja political parties and politicians are responsible for rigging and hiring of thugs during the 2019 general election.

Olugbuo, who expressed dismay over the role of some politicians and political parties in inducing voters and electoral officials, said the practice had marred the credibility of the exercise in some places.

He said that it had perpetuated violence and other electoral malpractice, stressing that parties and politicians alike through their actions have invoked hate speeches as well as ignited ethnic and religious intolerance during elections.

He therefore canvassed for electoral reforms that could guarantee transparent electoral process and promote the country’s democracy.

“There is a need for necessary legislative structure and civic education as measures to be undertaken to correct the negative influence and conduct of political parties and politicians in the country’s electoral process.

“The tribunals should also discharge their responsibilities in ensuring redress of electoral grievances.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should also collate and study reports of domestic and international observers in order to identify necessary reforms towards free, fair and credible elections,’’ he said.

Olugbuo also urged the executive and legislative arms of government to cooperate in undertaking fundamental reforms of the electoral process to ensure violence free and fair elections in future.

He also urged the federal government to revisit Justice Mohammed Uwais-led electoral reform committee report of 2008 and observers report on elections since 2011 to guide in carrying out the reforms.

Olugbuo, however, commended INEC on the conduct of supplementary elections held on March 23 to conclude the governorship and state houses of assembly elections in some states.

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