The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has underscored the crucial nature of the forthcoming Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) election, slated for Monday, December 18th, 2023, emphasizing its pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic process. As the umbrella organization representing all registered political parties in the country, IPAC stands as a significant platform dedicated to fostering a free, fair, credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful electoral environment in Nigeria.
Expressing concerns over potential manipulations in the election process, TMG has raised alarm bells, cautioning against the infiltration of the council’s leadership by certain political elements aiming to wield control over the institution. TMG highlighted the damaging impact of such attempts, drawing parallels to previous instances where various independent bodies, including electoral and judicial entities, have faced challenges to their autonomy and integrity.
The Group lamented the trend of implanting loyalists within critical institutions, asserting that these actions compromise democratic principles and erode public trust. Noting the IPAC election as a battleground for vested interests seeking to stifle opposition, TMG emphasized the importance of the council’s impartiality in fostering political party accountability and internal democracy.
TMG further raised concerns regarding candidates with pending criminal cases vying for leadership positions within IPAC, expressing dismay at their candidacy. The Group warned against the consequences of electing individuals with integrity deficits, citing potential damage to the council’s reputation.
In a bid to uphold transparency and credibility, TMG urged IPAC members to conscientiously exercise their votes, ensuring individuals with questionable backgrounds are not given leadership roles. The call for a transparent electoral process aligns with TMG’s vision of fostering confidence among Nigerians in IPAC’s ability to champion political party reforms.
Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), Chairman of Transition Morning Group (TMG) and Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), endorsed the statement, urging a fair and credible IPAC election to instill hope for comprehensive political party reform in Nigeria.
The December 18th IPAC election stands as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, and TMG’s advocacy for fairness and integrity within the process underscores the necessity for robust and transparent political party structures in the country.