From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) says it has screened 75 candidates for Chairmanship of the forthcoming local government election in the 17 local government Areas of the state.
While 788 chancellors have also been screened, 11 political parties have screened with 325 wards in the 17 local governments, and the commission spent 8 days for the screening.
Speaking during a stakeholders Engagement with Political Parties, Chairmen and Cancellors, IPAC, CAN/JNI, CSOS and security agencies, among others, the Chairman of the PLASIEC, Hon. Plangjin Cishak, assured that we are committed to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.
While commending the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and other members for the endorsement of the governor’s desire for us to serve in this capacity and its speedy screening was indicative of the vision of the legislative arm to join hands with the executive and move the state into a glorious future.
The commission further explained it has also engaged with stakeholders across all 17 local government areas to gather insights and input from the people of Plateau State, helping them to understand their expectations and concerns.
According to him, he believes that this grassroots approach is foundational in building a robust democratic framework that reflects the true voice of our people and understands the importance of certainty in this process, and since that day, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to upholding this date.
He said their staff participated in intensive training facilitated by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), adding that this training is crucial for ensuring that our personnel are equipped with the best practices necessary for conducting a transparent and credible electoral process.
“To further enhance our preparedness, we have implemented ongoing training sessions for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process. Key officials have undergone master training, which is being cascaded to all staff members. This strategy has been instrumental in bridging the gap between our appointed officials and the core civil servants already in place, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for success.
“In our pursuit of transparency, we have announced the recruitment of ad hoc staff who will serve as election officials.
“This decision underscores our commitment to inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that all qualified individuals have an equal opportunity to contribute to this vital process. We are in constant communication with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to reassure all political parties that our commitment to a credible election is unwavering.
“This election will also mark a significant milestone in the history of PLASIEC, as we are introducing electronic components, including a state-of-the-art Voter Verification Software developed exclusively by our ICT team,” he stated.
According to him, this innovation is designed to ensure that only eligible voters can cast their votes, a crucial step toward making sure that the voices of the Plateau people are heard and respected.
He said they have established contacts with various election observers who will monitor the electoral process, providing an additional layer of transparency and credibility.
In a strategic effort to secure our election, he said, they have inaugurated the Plateau State Advisory Consultative Committee on Election Security (PLACCES).
“This initiative is critical to ensuring the safety of citizens and election officials alike. We echo the sentiments of former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who reminded us that no ambition is worth the blood of any man. We are committed to ensuring a peaceful election, knowing that there will be life beyond this day.
“As we continue our preparations, a mock election is scheduled for September 28, 2024. This exercise will serve as a test run for the Voter Verification Software and will help us identify any potential challenges before the actual election day. Our goal is to ensure that everything runs seamlessly on October 9, and we are dedicated to learning from this mock election to enhance our processes,” he added.
He said, their commitment to creating stable democratic institutions at the grassroots level aligns perfectly with Governor Mutfwang’s vision and has consistently emphasized that every vote counts, and we are determined to ensure that every citizen of Plateau State has the opportunity to make their voice heard.
He also highlighted that they are acutely aware of the historical context that has shaped perceptions of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) in Nigeria. Many citizens have lost confidence due to past irregularities, and we recognize the responsibility we have to rewrite this narrative.
During our outreach, citizens have expressed their desire for us to “write our names in gold” by conducting credible elections. This promise weighs heavily on us as we approach October 9, and we are committed to fulfilling it.
Our achievements have already gained national recognition. PLASIEC has been recently recommended as one of the six other pilot SIECs in Nigeria. Other SIECs are expected to begin using the template we have implemented as a model to strengthen their operations.
He calls upon all stakeholders, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, security, religious leaders, and the media to join hands with us in this crucial endeavour, their support is invaluable in ensuring that we achieve our goal of a transparent and credible electoral process, together, we can restore the faith of the Plateau people in their democratic institutions and lay the groundwork for a brighter future.
The state Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwanf, was represented by the SGS Arc. Samuel Jatau said he was encouraged by the level of preparation.
According to him, it is human nature to resist change; this is normal, and we are often most comfortable with what we know. He urges all of us to approach these elections with open minds, ready to embrace the innovations that will place Plateau State on the map of Nigeria.
We must avoid the unfortunate events that marred the previous elections, which took place exactly three years ago, on October 9, 2021. Issues such as weather disturbances are challenges we have faced and resolved before, so there is no need for hesitation now. Let us go forward with a united spirit, for we are one people, and our strength lies in our unity. Our diversity should unite, not divide us, as that is the only path to progress.
He said as the elections approach; he encourages all political parties to prepare thoroughly and without scepticism. PLASIEC has done a commendable job so far, and I am confident they will continue to do so.
“However, as we move forward, we must all tighten our seat belts and ensure that the right decisions are made. We want to see the right people declared winners in an election that is free, fair, and admired by all citizens of Plateau State,” he stressed.
He assured us of the government’s commitment to ensuring that this election is one we can all be proud of. So, let us campaign with vigour, knowing that popularity and the people’s voice will ultimately decide the outcome.
This engagement is noteworthy and commended the ongoing dialogue. If any issues arise, there are appropriate channels through which concerns can be addressed, and I am confident they will be resolved promptly.