Bayelsa support INEC for deregistering political parties
Bayelsa support INEC for deregistering political parties
The Bayelsa State Government has voiced support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for deregistering political parties that could not fulfill provisions of the Electoral Act.
The state government’s position was made known by the Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo when he met the newly elected executive committee of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in the state.
He explained the government’s support for the action was due to its belief in the rule of law and need to strengthen democracy in the country.
The deputy governor stated this in a statement issued by his aide, Doubara Atasi on Wednesday. He said: “We also want to make it very clear that we will not work with any political party that has been deregistered or will be deregistered by INEC”.
Mr Ewhrudjakpo explained that: “This is because we believe in the rule of law and we must do away with the issue of mediocrity for true political development to take place.”
The deputy governor congratulated the new IPAC executive in the state while calling for effective collaboration between Governor Douye Diri’s administration and the council.
Mr Ewhrudjakpo expressed concern over the one year tenure of the executives as allowed by IPAC Constitution, as the duration might be too short for them to execute their programmes and projects.
He urged IPAC to review its constitutional provisions on tenure of office, to make for impactful leadership and reduce the high level of acrimony and litigation that characterised its transition process.
Mr Ewhrudjakpo also advised the IPAC executive to be accountable and transparent and to ensure they bequeath a worthy legacy to their successors.
“I think it will be necessary for IPAC to amend its constitution because where there is a high level of turnover, it makes it difficult for an organisation to succeed in that context.
“Personally, I think a five year-tenure is enough for you to do whatever you want to do and leave the stage for others to step in and offer what they have,” he said.
Brisibe Kpodoh, the state chairperson of IPAC, solicited the state government support and pledged to rally support for the government to enable it to deliver sustainable develohttp://northeaststarlive.compment in the state.
