Commonwealth ‘respects’ INEC postponement of 2015 polls

The Commonwealth Observer Group on Nigeria’s general elections says it will “respect and understand” the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to postpone the 2015 elections by six weeks.

A statement by Bakili Muluzi, former Malawi president and chairperson of the group, noted that the decision was taken “in difficult circumstances”.

The group, which was invited by INEC to observe the elections, had already arrived the country before the postponement was announced.

“The Commonwealth Observer Group arrived the country on February 7, following an invitation from INEC to observe all the elections,” Muluzi said.

“The invitation was also to consider all factors affecting the credibility of the electoral process as a whole.

“Soon after our arrival, we were informed of the decision taken by the chairman of INEC to postpone these elections by six weeks in light of the security situation facing Nigeria.

“We understand and respect this decision, taken in difficult circumstances. We look forward to the rescheduled elections taking place on 28 March, to enable the people of Nigeria exercise their democratic right.”

Commonwealth urged all stakeholders to remain calm and patient, and to support INEC to deliver on its promises.

It challenged all the relevant authorities to do everything possible to ensure the safety and security of citizens, and conducive environment during the polls.

“We further urge all stakeholders to remain calm and patient and to give the commission the support it needs to deliver these important elections.

“The group encourages the relevant authorities to do their utmost to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. And deliver the conditions which are conducive for a peaceful and credible poll.”

Commonwealth Observer Groups are groups formed to monitor elections in various countries around the world. Each group is usually made up of various statesmen from various countries in the Commonwealth of Nations.

The job of each Group is to assess whether the elections are conducted fairly. At the end of the observation period, reports are written and submitted to the Commonwealth headquarters.