By; AMOS TAUNA, Kaduna
The Kaduna State chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev John Joseph Hayab, has observed that to ensure a truly democratic and fair electoral process in Nigeria, there is the need for a collective effort from the government, political parties, civil society organizations and citizens alike.
Speaking in Kaduna on Saturday on the theme, “Beyond the ballot: Assessing Nigeria’s Post Election Landscape”, he noted that correcting a battered election in Nigeria can be a complex and challenging process.
According to him, “There is the need to
strengthen electoral institutions by enhancing the independence and capacity of institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure they can effectively carry out their duties, such as voter registration, voter education, and the administration of elections. This includes providing adequate funding, training, and security for the electoral staff.”
He also stressed the need to enhance transparency and accountability by establishing mechanisms to ensure transparency in the entire electoral process, from voter registration to the announcement of results, saying that it could include making the electoral process more inclusive, allowing for independent election observers, and conducting comprehensive audits of election results.
Hayab added that combat voter intimidation and violence could be addressed be ensuring steps are taken to address the issue of voter intimidation and violence that often plague Nigerian elections, pointing out that it could be included by implementing stronger security measures around polling units, creating an environment that enables open and peaceful political campaigns, and holding perpetrators accountable for any acts of violence or intimidation.
He said, “Promote civic education and voter awareness by investing in comprehensive civic education programs to increase awareness among citizens about their rights and responsibilities as voters. This includes educating voters about the importance of their participation, how to exercise their democratic rights, and how to prevent electoral malpractices.”
He suggested that steps could be taken to strengthen legal framework and law enforcement by reviewing and amending electoral laws to ensure they are comprehensive, clear, and in line with international standards, advising that harming the electoral process should incur severe penalties by strengthening law enforcement agencies to hold accountable those who violate electoral laws and engage in corrupt practices.
He believed that by introducing technology and innovation in the electoral process to improve efficiency, transparency, and accuracy and could include electronic voter registration, biometric identification of voters, and electronic transmission of election results to minimize manipulation and human error.
The CAN chairman also suggested for international support and collaboration from international organizations, such as the United Nations, African Union, and regional organizations, to provide technical support, exchange best practices, and ensure credible and fair elections.
