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TAF Africa, a Non-Governmental Organisation, has lauded the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for ensuring inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Saturday, July 13, local government election.
The organisation also lauded security agencies for visibility in all the wards and polling units across the 25 local government areas of the state.
Jake Epelle, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, gave the commendation on Sunday in Asaba at a news conference while
giving final report on the Saturday election.
He said DSIEC adopted the lessons learnt from TAF Africa on how to ensure inclusiveness of PWDs in its electoral process.
He added that the foundation deployed a team to observe the election closely, saying DSIEC made exceptional efforts in ensuring a more inclusive and secured election environment.
He noted that “we observed that adequate security was provided in all polling units visited and notably, no violence was recorded throughout the election.
“This ensured peaceful and orderly process, allowing voters to exercise their rights without fear.”
Epelle, however, noted that there was low voter turnout owing to voter apathy occasioned by experiences from previous elections.
He also said that some voters were disenfranchised due to creation of new polling units without adequate sensitisation of the electorate.
The organisation urged DSIEC to investigate why elections could not hold in Koko 11, units 1,2 and 3 in Warri North Local GovernmentArea.
The foundation’s Programmes Manager, Mr Adeolu Kilanko, said “voter apathy can pose significant threat to democratic system.”
According to him, the low voters turnout in the election reflects a trend of disenchantment among the electorate.
‘For PWDs, the impact is even more pronounced. Voter apathy can lead to their voices being further marginalised.”
Also, the TAF Africa Senior Communication Manager, Ms Lynn Agwuocha, also lauded DSIEC for its stride toward an inclusive electoral process.
Agwuocha reiterated the foundation’s commitment to continue to advocate for the rights and inclusion of PWDs and work toward a more inclusive and participatory democratic process in the country. (NAN)
A.I
July 15, 2024 @ 06:19 GMT|
Tags: Jake Epelle Ms Lynn Agwuocha TAF Africa
