The Digest:
The Independent National Electoral Commission has unveiled a revised draft of its 2026 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, seeking input to strengthen the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a consultative meeting with political party leaders in Abuja, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan said the new regulations align with the Electoral Act 2026 and address gaps in previous frameworks. The guidelines introduce reforms on party registration, primaries, campaign finance, and financial transparency, aiming to curb irregularities and end opaque candidate selection processes.Key Points:
- The revised guidelines aim to sanitize party primaries and end the imposition of unpopular candidates that fuel voter apathy and litigation.
- INEC warned it is operating within a compressed timeline, with presidential and National Assembly polls scheduled for January 16, 2027.
- The framework includes measurable benchmarks to boost the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
- IPAC raised concerns about the Electoral Act 2026, calling it a "significant regression" and urging restoration of indirect primaries.
- IPAC also demanded mandatory electronic transmission of results and the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission.
As INEC seeks to tighten electoral rules, political parties face new compliance requirements, with IPAC warning that unresolved issues could jeopardize the credibility of the 2027 elections.
Sources: The Punch
