PDP Tasks Kwara Electoral Commission on Credible Elections

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) to ensure a level playing field for all political parties participating in the forthcoming local government elections across the state’s 16 councils.

Key Highlights:

• Statement from PDP: The PDP’s Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Adewara, issued a statement in Ilorin, Kwara State’s capital, emphasizing the need for fairness in the electoral process. The statement was made available to Punch on Sunday.
• Party Representation: PDP Chairman Babatunde Mohammed and Secretary Abdulrahman Kayode represented the party at a KWASIEC-organized meeting with other political parties on Friday.
• Concerns Raised: The PDP expressed worries about a perceived alliance between KWASIEC and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). They questioned the impartiality of KWASIEC, citing behavior by APC Chairman Mr. Sunday Fagbemi, who allegedly overstepped his bounds during the meeting.
• Commitment to Elections: The PDP declared its readiness for the elections and did not request any changes to the election timetable previously released by KWASIEC. The party emphasized its commitment to a transparent and timely electoral process.
• Local Government Administration Issues: PDP highlighted concerns about the current administration of local governments, criticizing the imposition of Transition Implementation Committee chairmen by the Governor in 2019.
• Nomination Form Fees: The PDP agreed with suggestions from other parties on the affordability of nomination form fees. They proposed that the fees should not exceed N50,000 for councilorship and N200,000 for chairmanship.
• Call for KWASIEC Independence: The PDP urged KWASIEC to maintain its independence and ensure a fair electoral process, stressing the importance of integrity in democratic processes.
• Appeal to Party Members: The PDP called on its members, stakeholders, and Kwara electorates to uphold democratic principles and work towards free, fair, and credible local government elections.

APC’s Response:

APC Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi denied any dealings with KWASIEC, stating he had not visited the Commission’s office or contacted its members. He emphasized his right to express views on public matters and reiterated the APC’s focus on maintaining peace and preventing thuggery during the elections.

• Accusations Against PDP: Fagbemi accused the PDP of attempting to frustrate the election process, citing unnecessary questions posed by the PDP chairman during the meeting. He suggested that some opposition parties might plan to go to court to stop the election.

Conclusion:

The PDP’s call for a fair electoral process and KWASIEC’s independence highlights the ongoing concerns and preparations for the upcoming local government elections in Kwara State. Both parties have expressed their positions, emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in the electoral process.