Electoral Reforms: Action Alliance Chairman Calls for Independence from Executive Influence
Chief Kenneth Udeze, National Chairman of the Action Alliance (AA), has emphasized the urgent need for electoral reforms in Nigeria, advocating for an independent body to oversee party registration and regulation, free from executive interference. Speaking on NTA News 24’s Electoral Reform Half Hour, Chief Udeze shared insights from his extensive experience in party administration, highlighting persistent challenges faced by political parties in Nigeria.
During the interview, Chief Udeze recounted his journey within the Action Alliance, from joining as a member to becoming the National Secretary and eventually the National Chairman in 2017. He underscored AA’s commitment to a welfarist and Marxist ideology aimed at advancing the common good. He, however, lamented the recurring internal disputes and leadership crises plaguing Nigerian political parties, often fueled by compromised officials within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Responding to the proposed bill co-sponsored by Speaker Dr. Tajudeen Abbas to create a regulatory body for political parties, Udeze acknowledged that easing INEC’s workload could strengthen internal party democracy. However, he expressed concerns over potential executive control over the new body, questioning the impartiality of appointments. “It’s still the executive that will determine the people to man that body,” he remarked, stressing the importance of ensuring non-partisan appointments.
On party funding, Udeze lamented the financial struggles faced by smaller parties, particularly since government subventions were withdrawn. He revealed that AA relies heavily on dues, donations, and creative self-sustaining measures, such as cooperative societies and farming ventures.
Udeze also supported the long-standing recommendation from the Justice Uwais Report of 2007, advocating for the appointment of INEC’s chairman and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) by independent bodies like the National Judicial Council (NJC), civil society groups, and universities to ensure neutrality. He expressed frustration over the current system, where executive influence often undermines the independence of electoral bodies.
Chief Udeze concluded by calling on the National Assembly to prioritize critical electoral reforms, emphasizing the importance of credible appointments and independent oversight for a truly democratic electoral process.