Kwara Independent Electoral Commission Assures Transparency, Fair Play Ahead of Local Government Polls
Ahead of the local government elections scheduled for September 21, 2024, in Kwara State, the Chairman of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC), Alhaji Mohammadu Baba Okanla, has pledged transparency and a level playing field for all participating political parties.
In an interview with journalists in Ilorin on Tuesday, Baba Okanla reiterated KWSIEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth electoral process.
He disclosed that preparations have been finalized to conduct the council polls, emphasizing the importance of adherence to electoral guidelines by all parties involved.
“We have engaged with representatives of 17 political parties regarding the forthcoming elections and have communicated the date, conditions, and timetable to them,” Baba Okanla stated.
Highlighting the commission’s proactive approach, he mentioned that various programs have been structured to educate and sensitize stakeholders on their roles in ensuring a successful electoral exercise.
This includes seminars aimed at briefing political parties on their responsibilities and expectations during the election period.
“The essence of these programs is to encourage peaceful conduct among supporters on election day and to ensure they turn out in large numbers to vote for their preferred candidates,” Baba Okanla explained.
He assured that KWSIEC has created a conducive and impartial environment for all political parties, underscoring the commission’s commitment to transparency in its operations.
“As an electoral body, we have provided a level playing field for all parties, demonstrating our commitment to fairness and credibility,” he affirmed.
Baba Okanla also urged political party leaders to cooperate with KWSIEC, adhere to electoral regulations, and refrain from actions that could disrupt the electoral process.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace before, during, and after the elections to safeguard the democratic integrity of the state.
