South African Electoral Process Stark Contrast To Nigeria’s -Peter Obi
By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi has applauded the outcome of the recent South African election, saying that the process remains a shining example of what a transparent and efficient democratic electoral process should look like.
Mr. Obi who lauded the process via his X handle on Saturday claimed that with about 60 percent Voter turnout, over 90 percent of polling open on time, allowing diaspora voting, the results and updates were real-time without any form of technical glitches during the election.
“This demonstrated the robustness and transparency of their system. The seamless online dissemination of results further highlights their commitment to democratic principles and technological advancement”, he added.
Obi noted that the development was in stark contrast to the 2023 general election in Nigeria, adding that “Nigeria’s 2023, with less than 30% of the Voter turnout and over 60% of the polling stations starting late, no diaspora voting, the elections were plagued by allegations of fraud and widespread irregularities, all forms of glitches, despite an enormous expenditure to the tune of about a billion dollars (direct allocation of =N=313 Billion and donor agencies supports)”.
Speaking further, he said, “the process has been widely discredited. The differences between the two countries’ electoral processes are both stark and lamentable”.
He said, the South Africa’s Election Results Center, with its state-of-the-art electronic board, showcased results with unparalleled precision and speed.
“Meanwhile, Nigeria’s electoral process is mired in controversy and lacks transparency. This glaring juxtaposition is a painful reminder of our country’s ongoing struggles with democratic governance”, he said.
While calling for a comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria, the former governor of Anambra State urged the country to learn from the South Africa’s example.
“It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure that our elections are free, fair, and credible.
“We must learn from South Africa’s example and strive to build a system that restores the people’s faith in our democracy.
“The time for action is now, and we cannot afford to delay any longer in addressing these critical issues for a new Nigeria is POssible!”, he said.
