Nigeria Needs Independent Office of Registrar of Political Parties, Says Jonathan

Strategic Insights -

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasized the need for an independent office of the Registrar of Political Parties to tackle the growing crisis of political party indiscipline in Nigeria. Speaking at a public presentation of the National Action Plan for Electoral Reforms, Jonathan proposed that an independent office be established to regulate party operations, promote internal democracy, and enforce party discipline. He also suggested reforms to the process of appointing the chairman of the Independent National Commission (INEC), proposing the creation of an independent screening and nomination mechanism. Furthermore, Jonathan recommended that all post-election litigations be concluded before the swearing-in of elected officials to avoid confusion and undermine governance.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jonathan proposes the establishment of an independent office of the Registrar of Political Parties to regulate party operations, promote internal democracy, and enforce party discipline.
  • The office should have the power to declare the seat of any defector vacant, affirming the principle that the electoral mandate belongs to the people.
  • Jonathan recommends reforms to the process of appointing the INEC chairman, suggesting the creation of an independent screening and nomination mechanism.
  • The proposed mechanism should comprise representatives from the judiciary, civil societies, academia, and professional bodies to vet and recommend qualified candidates.
  • Jonathan proposes reforms to conclude all post-election litigations before the swearing-in of elected officials to avoid confusion and undermine governance.
  • He suggests adopting a framework that compels the timely resolution of electoral disputes, possibly with specially designated election tribunals and timelines that align with the electoral calendar.
  • Jonathan commends the Abuja school for its commitment to driving conversations around democratic development and emphasizes the need for leadership and institutional reforms in Nigeria.

Statistics:

  • Nigeria has made notable progress since its return to democratic rule in 1999, but the country's electoral system still faces significant challenges.
  • The former president notes a disturbing rise in the practice of cross-carpeting, with elected officials defecting from parties they were elected under without ideological justification or accountability to the electorate.
  • Jonathan references the effectiveness of the proposed reforms in countries such as Kenya and Malawi, where similar mechanisms have worked to promote internal party democracy and discipline.
  • The proposed independent screening and nomination mechanism for INEC chairman appointments should comprise representatives from the judiciary, civil societies, academia, and professional bodies.

Sources:

  • NAN (Date not specified)
  • Abuja School of Social and Political Thought (Date not specified)
  • Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (Date not specified)