From Umar Dankano, Yola
The Adamawa state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has conducted the party’s ward congresses peacefully across the twenty-one (21) local government areas in the state.
Chairman of the Monitoring Committee, Barrister Gibon Timothy Kataps, stated this in an interview with journalists in Yola on Saturday, expressing delight with the orderly manner in which the party delegates conducted themselves in all the wards visited during the exercise.
Barrister Kataps, who doubles as the Secretary to the Taraba state government, noted that the conduct of the congresses reflected the unity and maturity of the party in Adamawa, applauding the party members, men and women alike, for peaceful participation in the exercise.
”So far so good, this is the third ward we are visiting and we are very impressed with the early turnout of delegates, the women and men of the party who have come out in their numbers to either vote for their candidates or affirm consensus candidates.
“We are also impressed with the unity we see among party members in all the wards visited. The atmosphere has been very peaceful,” Kataps said.
Answering a question on the modalities adopted for the congresses, Kataps said that the party’s constitution provides room for elective contests or consensus arrangements explaining that, where more than one candidate is vying for a position, delegates are required to cast their votes, while in cases of consensus, delegates are expected to affirm agreed candidates.
He acknowledged the large turnout of women, describing it as “impressive.” In several polling units, women were seen coming out in large numbers and maintaining order as they awaited the start of the elections. Even when men were moving around, the women stayed in line, which was quite commendable,” he said.
Commenting on the issue of civil servants participating in politics sequel to the recent resolution by the National Assembly (Senate) permitting civil servants to engage in political activities. Kataps clarified the constitutional position noting that, while freedom of Association is guaranteed under the law, civil servants who wish to contest elections must resign from service before doing so.
“The constitution allows everybody freedom of association, which includes civil servants. You can belong to any political party, but when it comes to contesting an election, you must relinquish one. You cannot be a civil servant and at the same time seek elective office. Common sense and the law make that clear,” Kataps explained.
However, reports from some wards among the 226 wards in the state have revealed that some local government chairmen and stakeholders have allegedly interfered with the congresses, putting the conduct of the exercise in question.
Sahel Reporters News
