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By Madu Obi
The Anambra State House of Assembly has faulted the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) over its position concerning the amendment of the Anambra State Electoral Law, 2024.
IPAC had in a statement by its national chairman, Mr. Yusuf Mamman Dantile, rejected the amendment of the state electoral commission law, describing it as a blatant attack on democracy.
But clarifying the issue, the speaker of the house, Dr. Somtochukwu Udeze expressed surprise at what he described as misconceptions and misinformation being spread by IPAC.
Udeze, who spoke through his Special Assistant to the speaker on new media, Mr. Franklin Osuagwu said: "it is essential to recognize that the upcoming election is a Local Government election, firmly within the jurisdiction of the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC).
"The intention behind the amended law is to ensure that the people of Anambra State, under the leadership of their respective State Party Chairmen, have the primary role in nominating candidates for this local election.
"It is only logical and in the spirit of true democracy that those who are directly connected to the electorate—our State Party Chairmen—should have the prerogative to submit the list of candidates, ensuring that the choice truly reflects the will of the people at the grassroots level.
"We find it curious and deeply concerning that the national chairman of IPAC, rather than the Anambra State chapter of IPAC, is leading the charge against this amendment.
This raises questions about the true motives behind the press release, especially considering that the national chairman is not directly involved in the political dynamics of Anambra State's local elections.
"The section of the law in question primarily affects political parties in crisis, particularly those lacking a recognized National Chairman or where the leadership of the party is in dispute.
"For parties without such issues, the law provides clear and fair options for nominating their candidates. Therefore, the objection raised by IPAC appears to be more of a generalized criticism rather than a legitimate concern grounded in the specificities of the law.
"We acknowledge that IPAC has every right to express its opinions and to challenge the law in a court of competent jurisdiction if it believes there are valid grounds.
However, it is important to note that the grievance being aired by IPAC seems to be an isolated opinion rather than a widespread consensus among political parties in Anambra State.
"We also call on IPAC to be transparent and reveal the true sponsors behind this opposition. It is telling that the criticism seems to be directed at a law that primarily affects parties embroiled in leadership crises.
"This raises the question: is IPAC’s objection really about upholding democratic principles, or is it being driven by specific interests within parties currently facing internal disputes?"
The statement said the Anambra State House of Assembly stands firm in its commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that the electoral process in the state remains transparent, fair, and reflective of the people's will.
It urges all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and allow the democratic process to proceed without undue interference or baseless accusations.
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