S/Leone’s NEC Commissioner Dr. Christiana Thorpe lectures on Credibility of Elections in Nigeria
Sierra Leone’s National Electoral Commissioner and Chief Returning officer Dr. Christiana Thorpe has shared her views on electoral reforms and credible elections conduct that is characterized by fairness, transparency, free from intimidation and corruption – with the Nigerian polity during a one day symposium in Abuja, Nigeria. (Photo: H.E. Henry O. Macauley (Rgt )Dr Christiana Thorpe, Major General Rtd. Edwin Sam Mbomah, 1st Sec. Rakie Macarthy)
Organized by the Independent Republican Institute (IRI), the guest speaker Dr. Christiana Thorpe spoke on two of the Central keys to any form of democracy, which has to do with the right of any group or individual to compete in a political process and the right of citizens to freely associate and express their ideas.
She said the resultant effect of these issues as highlighted above, will lead to Strong political parties, which will serve to protect and advance democratic principles. They will also lead to building strong parties with issue-based agendas, that will presents voters with a choice at the ballot box, ensuring that citizens have a say in determining their own destinies.
Dr. Christiana Thorpe also said that Democracy greatly lessens the likelihood of conflict between nations, and of want within nations.
The International Republican Institute’s (IRI) current program in Nigeria is aimed at strengthening the electoral process, enhancing the capacity of political parties and encouraging greater participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities (PWD). IRI has also sought to forge stronger media.
Her talk is in line with Nigeria’s Head of State, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s, promise of electoral reforms in a bid to improve on the credibility of the proposed elections in Nigeria next year,
The Independent Republican Institute, (IRI) is a non profit, non partisan international organisation, that advances freedom and democracy worldwide, by developing political parties, civic institutions, open elections, good governance, and the rule of law.
Dr. Christiana Thorpe’s audience include representation from Nigeria’s civil society and all the political parties in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It will be recalled that Dr. Thorpe conducted one of the most credible, transparent, corrupt – free & peaceful elections in modern times. An election that has been described a model for democracy by all the re-known and credible elections body in the world.Â
Speaking during a courtesy call on the Sierra Leone High Commissioner to Nigeria H.E. Henry O. Macauley, Dr. Thorpe said though problematic elections and the persistence of violent conflict dominate the headlines in Africa, IRI has continued to support the consolidation of real democratic gains in transitioning states.
In partnership with political and civil society activists, she said IRI promotes free, transparent elections; increases the ability of political parties to recognize and effectively champion the needs of constituents; encourages women, youth and minorities to engage in the political process; and helps further government accountability to the electorate.
IRI is present in more than thirty Countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, Middle East and North Africa.
Pasco Gerald Temple, Information Attaché, Sierra Leone High Commission, Abuja, NigeriaStay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
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