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Consequences of the Electoral Commission's inability to maintain fairness

Electoral Commission Original Logo EC's logo

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 Source: Akepae Michael Adombila

The integrity and impartiality of electoral processes are fundamental to the functioning of any democracy. The role of the Electoral Commission is of utmost importance in ensuring fair and transparent elections.

Sadly, recent events have raised concerns regarding the inability of the Electoral Commissioner to demonstrate non-partisanship. This statement seeks to shed light on these concerns and condemn the failure of the Electoral Commissioners to uphold their impartiality, which undermines the credibility of the electoral system.

The essence of neutrality:

Non-partisanship is a critical principle that electoral commissioners must adhere to. It signifies that they should remain neutral and unbiased, refraining from favoring any political party, candidate, or interest group. By maintaining non-partisanship, electoral commissioners inspire public trust, enhance the legitimacy of election outcomes, and ensure a level playing field for all participants. The Electoral Commissioners must work as a guardian of democracy and exercise their duties with the utmost integrity.

Erosion of public confidence:

When the Electoral Commissioner fails to promote and hold onto non-partisanship, it erodes public confidence in the electoral process. Citizens rightly expect that electoral officials will act independently and without bias.

However, any perception of favoritism or political alignment can lead to doubts about the fairness of elections, resulting in a loss of trust in the electoral system itself. This erosion of public confidence undermines the democratic fabric of a nation and weakens the legitimacy of elected representatives.

Evidence of partisanship:

Recent incidents have highlighted instances where the Electoral Commissioner has demonstrated partisan behavior, raising valid concerns about their ability to remain impartial. These instances may include public statements or actions that are perceived as favoring a particular political party or candidate. Such behavior not only violates the principle of non-partisanship but also compromises the integrity of the electoral process.

Impact on electoral outcomes:

When the Electoral Commission fails to maintain non-partisanship, it can have far-reaching consequences for electoral outcomes. The perception of bias can lead to accusations of election rigging, disputes, and even legal challenges. These issues not only prolong the resolution of electoral disputes but also create divisions within society, undermining the stability and unity of the nation. The Electoral Commissioners must uphold their responsibilities to act in a non-partisan manner to prevent such detrimental consequences.

Restoring confidence and accountability:

To restore public confidence in the electoral process, the Electoral Commissioner must take immediate steps to rectify the situation. Transparency, accountability, and corrective actions are essential in addressing concerns about partisanship. The Electoral Commissioner should proactively engage with stakeholders, demonstrate a commitment to impartiality, and take measures to ensure that future elections are conducted with utmost fairness and integrity.

Conclusion:

The inability of the Electoral Commissioner to maintain non-partisanship poses a serious threat to the credibility of the electoral process. Upholding impartiality is vital for ensuring fair elections, safeguarding democracy, and maintaining public trust. The Electoral Commission must act swiftly to address concerns, restore confidence, and fulfill its duty to uphold the principles of non-partisanship. Only by doing so can we preserve the integrity of our democratic institutions and protect the democratic rights of all citizens.

Columnist: Akepae Michael Adombila
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