*Says Polls Not ‘Do-or-Die Affair’
THE African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for transparent, inclusive and peaceful elections next year, urging that the process be free from manipulation, intimidation and abuse of state institutions.
National Chairman of the party, David Mark, who made the call during a visit by a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI) and its secretariat to the party in Abuja, on Wednesday August 18, said the party would do everything within its powers to support an electoral process that meets globally accepted democratic standards.
“We are interested in free, fair and credible elections, and we will do whatever we can to ensure that the process meets international standards,” he said.
Mark said the party was not seeking any special favour from electoral authorities or other stakeholders, but demanding a level playing field and an electoral process that reflects the genuine choice of the people.
He expressed concern over the abuse of the electoral process by governments in power and, increasingly, by non-state actors, particularly condemning the violence and intimidation reportedly witnessed during the concluded Osun State governorship election, where no fewer than 30 people were said to have lost their lives.
He said elections should not be treated as war or a do-or-die affair,” adding that elections should give citizens the opportunity to freely choose their leaders and pursue their aspirations for development and an improved quality of life.
Mark called for legitimate electoral mandates to be respected, reiterating the need for free, fair, transparent and credible elections.
He appreciated the IRI for the engagement and expressed its readiness to continue working with the institute and other stakeholders to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.
