Editorial
Election Commission's concerns
These merit consideration
THE Election Commission (EC) has voiced its concern that unless the culture of political confrontation is stemmed before it gets any worse, we may well be headed for a major political turmoil like the one that visited us before the last general election.
We believe this is a timely warning expressed by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), and merits utmost consideration of all the major political parties. The realisation should dawn on them to heed the appeal, otherwise, confrontational politics cannot be defused.
Along with the expression of a concern, the EC has also given its suggestions and set goals for their realisation in a concerted manner. Those include, inter alia, building on the trust in the independence of the Election Commission, maintaining an authentic electoral roll and conducting free and fair elections.
Coming as they do in the backdrop of the EC having held the 2008 general election, by-elections and local government elections successfully and credibly, the Chief Election Commissioner's (CEC) recommendations merit serious consideration.
We fully endorse his view that a strong and independent EC is necessary to rid our electoral process of the evils of political vendetta, money and muscle power.
The next general elections are due in 2014. Between now and then, not only the good precedents set by the current EC would have to be followed, the political parties will need to fill in the gaps in the electoral reform processes.
Also importantly, the integrity that was reflected in the preparation of the electoral roll should also apply in updating the same for the 2014 General Election.
Of fundamental importance is the need for appointment of non-controversial persons of high probity and respectable track record to the posts of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and his team of Commissioners. A provision exists in the constitution, which lays the criterion for appointment, but this has hardly been followed in the last 40 years. The CEC's pointer calls for attention.
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