Democracy and Election can not be separated from each other because the absence of a clear, transparent and credible electoral process undermines democracy in its entirety. Can we say that Nigeria is practicing democracy when we have refused to allow vote count? Where forceful declaration of victory is allowed to stand? Where ones freedom is not guaranty after a speech, where free speech online is now being criminalized and called cyber crimes against those in Government positions?
Ex-IPAC National Chairman, Chief Peter Ameh expresses concern on the undermining enumerator of Democratic governance in Nigeria after 25 years of Uninterrupted electoral cycle.
He opined that democratic governance refers to the practice of democracy in the management of public affairs, ensuring that power is exercised in a manner that is accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of citizens with the following as key elements of democratic governance :
1. Participation: Citizen involvement in decision-making processes.
2. Representation: Elected officials represent the interests of citizens.
3. Accountability: Leaders are responsible for their actions and decisions.
4. Transparency: Open and accessible information about government activities.
5. Rule of Law: Equal application of laws and regulations.
6. Human Rights: Protection and promotion of individual rights and freedoms.
7. Separation of Powers: Checks and balances among executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
8. Independent Institutions: Autonomous bodies ensuring democratic functioning.
Democratic governance promotes:
1. Legitimacy
2. Stability
3. Economic growth
4. Human development
5. Social justice
It reduces the risk of:
1. Corruption
2. Authoritarianism
3. Conflict
4. Inequality
5. Human rights violations
Free, fair, and credible elections are considered the cornerstone of democracy for several reasons:
1. Legitimacy: Elections give legitimacy to the government, ensuring that power is transferred peacefully and democratically.
2. Representation: Elections enable citizens to choose their representatives, ensuring that their interests and needs are represented.
3. Accountability: Elections hold leaders accountable for their actions, as they must face the electorate to seek re-election.
4. Choice and Competition: Elections offer citizens a choice between different candidates and parties, promoting competition and innovation in governance.
5. Protection of Rights: Elections ensure that citizens’ rights are protected, as elected officials are responsible for upholding the constitution and laws.
6. Stability: Free, fair, and credible elections promote stability, as they provide a peaceful transfer of power and reduce the risk of conflict.
7. Public Trust: Elections build public trust in government, as citizens see their votes having a direct impact on the direction of the country.
8. Encourages Participation: Elections encourage citizen participation in the democratic process, fostering engagement and ownership.
In summary, free, fair, and credible elections are essential for ensuring that power is transferred democratically, and that government represents the will of the people, making them the cornerstone of democracy
Chief Peter Ameh
Ex-IPAC National Chairman