|
Momodou
Denmark
11744 Posts |
 Posted - 25 Oct 2007 : 00:57:14
|
IEC HOLDS WORKSHOP ON ELECTORAL PROCESS
As Local Government Elections Draws Near
By Amie Sanneh
The Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Alhaji Mustapha L. Carayol has described public support and confidence as essential to an effective and reliable electoral system.
He noted that a great strength and asset of the commission lies in the public confidence it has acquired since its inception.
“There is the need also for the holistic participation of all citizens in the electoral process he said.
The IEC Chairman was speaking on Monday at the opening of a two-day workshop for stakeholders on the electoral process at the Kairaba Beach Hotel. He added that the commission has a dire need for more infrastructure and logistical support for its operations.
“The electoral process does not only have to be concentrated on the functions of the Independent Electoral Commission, but it encompasses a wide range of participation from the public sector,” he noted.
The IEC Boss went on to highlight their stakeholders in electoral process, which among others includes: the government, political parties, electorate, security, media etc. “They have different roles to play so as to witness the conduct of free, fair and transparent elections in our country,” says IEC Chairman.
Mr. Carayol also highlighted the roles, aims and functions of the IEC.
The role of the IEC Mr. Carayol said is to ensure that the people of The Gambia are given the opportunity (1) associate freely and hold political opinion without undue hindrance; and (2) to elect their representatives in free and fair elections.
“Governance in The Gambia is based on a written constitution, which clearly defines the framework within which the Government operates and prohibits over concentration of authority in any person or branch of government,” he remarked.
IEC Chairman pointed out that since its inception, the IEC has actively taken up its responsibility and manage to create an enabling environment where Gambians can exercise their rights and responsibilities.
The Representative of UNDP Vitalie Munteen called on participants to reflect on the previous elections and critically examine legal issues like the legal framework, modernization of the registration process, build capacity for all political parties etc in their roles as poll watchers on Election Day.
He assured them of UNDP’s support at all times.
National Assembly Members, Chiefs, Civil Society Organisations, the Media among other dignitaries, attended the program.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 125/2007, 24 – 25 October, 2007
|
A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
|
Topic Locked
