Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has advocated a comprehensive and transparent electoral reforms that respect and uphold the electoral decisions of citizens, rather than deferring to election tribunals to determine election outcomes.
He also expressed optimism that a transparent, unambiguous, and fraud-free leadership selection process would yield credible leaders through free and fair elections.
Mutfwang stated this at the annual colloquium with the theme “Electoral Judicial Reforms: Imperatives for Nigeria’s Democracy, Governance, Leadership, and Selection Process, “organised by the Haske Satumari Foundation in Central Business District-Abuja.
The governor, who gave the keynote address, titled: ‘The Imperatives for Electoral and Judicial Reforms’, highlighted the numerous challenges facing the electoral process, including voter intimidation, violence, and irregularities that compromise election credibility.
He emphasised the necessity of, “electoral and judicial reforms that would strengthen democracy and citizen participation.
Mutfwang further noted that the judiciary has a vital role in maintaining electoral integrity.
“I will like to call for sweeping judicial reforms to foster a fair, efficient, and independent judicial system that prioritizes citizens’ fundamental rights and respect for the choice they make during elections”, he maintained.
He pointed out the judiciary’s duty is to ensure legal compliance, especially in pre-election matters, and criticised the Plateau scenario for its blatant disregard for judicial precedents and stare decisis principles.
“Electoral reforms are crucial for preserving electoral process integrity and legitimacy, building public trust in democratic institutions, and ensuring free and fair elections.
“The success of these reforms hinges on political will, stakeholder engagement, and robust implementation and enforcement to effect real improvements in the electoral system.”
Alfred D. Skari, Chairman of the Haske Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to humanitarian activities, promoting peace and unity, and supporting families who have lost their breadwinners and means of livelihood.
The panel included former House of Representatives members, Hon. Beni Lar, Hon. Dachung Bagos, Alh. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, Chairman IPAC among others.
Why Nigeria needs electoral reforms that respect citizens’ choices – Gov Mutfwang
