The Inter Party Advisory Council Kebbi State Chapter has urged the State Independent Electoral Commission to promptly provide election guidelines to the 18 political parties participating in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for August 31, 2024.
The State Chairman of IPAC, Ibrahim Mohammed, emphasized the importance of these guidelines in ensuring that all parties are adequately prepared. Speaking to newsmen after a meeting with representatives from the 18 political parties, Mohammed stated, “Provision of the election guidelines would make the parties get prepared for the forthcoming local government elections in the state.”
The call for immediate provision of election guidelines is not without context. Historically, local government elections in Kebbi State have faced delays and administrative challenges. In previous elections, the late release of guidelines and irregularities in the electoral process have led to disputes and dissatisfaction among political parties and voters alike.
Furthermore, Mohammed highlighted a critical resolution from the meeting: the immediate announcement of election results at the polling units. He noted that delayed announcements, which have occurred in past elections, undermine the credibility of the electoral process. “The forum resolved to call on the State Independent Electoral Commission to announce results immediately after elections at the polling units, as parties would not tolerate declaration of results two days after,” he asserted.
Additionally, IPAC called on KESIEC to employ competent and reputable personnel to conduct the elections to ensure the integrity of the process. This call stems from concerns over past incidents of electoral malpractice, which have tainted the outcomes of previous elections.
In conclusion, Mohammed stated that the forum has decided to formally request the electoral guidelines in writing from KESIEC, underscoring the importance of transparency and preparedness in the electoral process.