Youths want 30% representation in political parties

A coalition of youths from various registered political parties has called for a 30% representation in their party’s affairs, saying this would avail them a better political space in the country.
The National Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Chairman of the coalition which they called ‘Political Parties National Youth Leaders Forum’ (PONYLEF), Abdullahi Maibasira, disclosed this in Abuja during their inaugural meeting.

According to Maibasira, the forum was formed to chart strategic plans on how youths will achieve their rightful positions, as well as to enable them meet their political needs in the country.
The forum which was organized on the theme ‘setting the youth agenda for credible violence free elections in 2015, also set up a six man committe to pilot their affairs
Maibasira said the forum was apt, saying  it was pertinent for youths to rub minds on issues affecting them irrespective of the political party they belonged to.
In a communique signed at the end of the meeting, the forum agreed to be called PONYLEF, saying they will work with the various registered political parties across the country which is recognised by INEC.

They agreed to work towards achieving a common goal of ensuring that youth arm of these parties carry out their political activities, and also sensitize and mobilize within the framework of peace, stability, progress and development of the country.

The communique encouraged youths to fully partake in the political process, while urging political parties to support youths in the quest for elected and appointed positions.
It also charged the various youth leaders on constructive leadership minds in order to inculcate peace in the minds of other young persons.
The forum further resolved to liaise with stakeholders through a multi-level strategy in ensuring its visions, mission and objectives is achieved within the best ethical framework of good governance, transparency, rule of law and accountability.