Ngwele pledges to tackle voter apathy during interviews for IEBC chair
Ngwele stressed that this issue needs immediate attention, as it directly impacts the legitimacy and inclusiveness of the electoral process.
Former Nairobi County Assembly Clerk and Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson candidate Jacob Ngwele Muvengei has highlighted the pressing issue of voter apathy, which he believes plays a major role in the persistent low voter turnout during elections.
During his appearance before the IEBC selection panel on Tuesday, Ngwele stressed that this issue needs immediate attention, as it directly impacts the legitimacy and inclusiveness of the electoral process.
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Ngwele attributed voter apathy to several factors, including mismanagement of the electoral system, lack of transparency, and instances of voter suppression.
He proposed creating a dialogue to gather feedback from all stakeholders, including voters, political parties, and civil society organisations, to craft long-term solutions to voter apathy.
"I propose initiating a national dialogue to engage all stakeholders and gather crucial feedback. This will allow us to effectively address voter apathy and ensure that the electoral process is both transparent and inclusive," Ngwele stated.
Additionally, Ngwele called for the digitalisation of voter registration, noting that this would make the process more accessible and transparent. He advocated for the creation of a digital platform that would streamline voter registration and enable real-time updates.
However, he acknowledged that such reforms would require the necessary legislation to be put in place.
The IEBC chairperson candidate outlined his qualifications and the reasons why he believes he is suited to lead the electoral body.
He highlighted his 18 years of legal practice, which he believes will be instrumental in ensuring that he is an effective chairman of the IEBC.
Ngwele emphasised his well-rounded qualifications and experience, which include political management, legislative experience, public finance management, and administration.
"I am confident that my diverse experience makes me well-suited for the role of IEBC chairman. I bring well-rounded qualifications, including experience in political management, legislation, public finance, and administration."
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