By M S. BAH
Alieu Momar Njai Chairman Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) cautions Politicians to respect and follow the election guidelines and Itinerary to avoid causing problems. Mr. Njai made these remarks during questions and answer sessions at a Press Conference held at the IEC headquarters in Kanifing, on Thursday 23 November 2017.
The IEC Chairman further underscored the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment for the upcoming local government elections.
“All candidates should stick to their itineraries during the campaign period to avoid problems” He Asserted.
“IEC has set new election rules which are expected to be tabled before parliament for adoption” He disclosed.
Mr. Chairman also urged people to desist from using languages that will breach the peace of the Nation for the upcoming elections. The IEC chairman underscored the preparedness of IEC towards the Local Government Elections. Mr. Njai asserted that, anyone who wants to contest must have a valid voters card.
He said the commission is aware of some tribal issues on, the Internet. He however urged that “We should jointly address Tribal Issues”. He said the IEC will caution all candidates on the issue of tribal and anything that can bring violence. He also challenged the media to preach peace.
Mr. Njai said due to the open political space his commission will expect about 700 candidates to contest for the Local Government Elections. “Our main constraint will be logistics on Electoral Materials, due to the number of candidates we are expecting to contest in the upcoming Local Government Elections” He remarked.
On her part Commissioner Mrs Isatou Jallow Ndure also reiterated the importance of maintaining the peace during the election activities.