The European Union has urged the federal government to speed up essential electoral changes before the 2027 general elections, cautioning that postponements, particularly in legislative and constitutional updates, might hinder democratic development.
A Member of the European Parliament and head of the EU Election Observation Follow-up Mission to Nigeria, Barry Andrews, issued the statement during a meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja on Thursday.
Andrews, who headed the EU Election Observation Mission during the 2023 general elections, stated that the EU was "pleased" to come back for a subsequent assessment, although it highlighted ongoing concerns.
We acknowledge that there are specific time limitations, regarding both judicial reform and administrative reform, and naturally, constitutional reform, which proves to be significantly more challenging.
"But we are suggesting all these recommendations in line with international standards that the EU, Nigeria, and most nations have agreed to, and thus we are part of a broader global election monitoring system that will benefit numerous democracies to promote democracy, not only in Nigeria, not just in Africa, but around the world, including in Europe," Andrews stated.
There are certain regions that need legal measures, and our team would be pleased to receive your input on the advancements achieved and the issues you foresee in the coming years.
An EU representative recognized the progress achieved by INEC, but highlighted that numerous suggestions from the 2023 EOM report are still not yet carried out.
"So now we are conducting follow-up, which is the standard approach for election monitoring, and we are pleased to note that considerable progress has been made in response to these suggestions," he added.
Nevertheless, he highlighted that "numerous suggestions necessitate steps from different organizations within the executive, legislative, and judicial branches."
In his comments, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated that only eight out of the 23 suggestions from the EU in 2023 were specifically directed at the commission — and only one was classified as a top priority.
The remaining items, including five high-priority changes, are beyond INEC's immediate authority.
Measures have been implemented for parts of the suggestions that only need administrative steps to put into effect.
"Likewise, measures are being implemented regarding the overarching suggestions as the National Assembly's ongoing legal review reaches its conclusion," Yakubu mentioned.
Yakubu cautioned that not taking immediate action on changes to the electoral laws might interfere with preparations for the 2027 elections.
Election is a procedure regulated by legal frameworks. Several of your suggestions involve examining our electoral laws. Therefore, the commission has engaged with our National Assembly, including a meeting with the Joint Committee on Electoral Issues (Senate and House of Representatives).
We urge the National Assembly to quickly review the electoral reform proposal. Passing the law at an early stage is essential for our election preparations.
"Uncertainty regarding the legal structure for the election may disrupt the commission's operations as the election approaches," he warned.
Nevertheless, Yakubu confirmed Nigeria's willingness to welcome international election observers and mentioned that invitations are expected to be issued soon to the EU, Commonwealth, African Union, and Economic Community of West African States for the 2027 elections.
According to the EU Election Observation Mission's 2023 final report, deficiencies in legislation and electoral management impeded the organization of effective and inclusive elections, undermining confidence in INEC.
In an effort to enhance upcoming elections, the EU Election Observation Mission provided 23 suggestions for the Nigerian government to review.
The six key suggestions highlight the importance of eliminating uncertainties in the legal framework; creating a transparent and publicly responsible selection procedure for INEC officials; guaranteeing immediate release and availability of election outcomes; offering enhanced safeguards for media professionals; tackling bias against women in political activities; and dealing with the lack of consequences for electoral violations.
The EU's statements were made as domestic calls for thorough electoral changes increased. INEC has released a post-election review report containing 142 internal suggestions, but legislative progress has come to a standstill in the National Assembly.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Posting Komentar