Illegal campaigns: INEC rues inability to punish errant parties The Independent National Electoral Commission has expressed frustration over its inability to penalise political parties and aspirants who violate provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 guiding campaign activities in the country. Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Kayode Idowu, had admitted that all political parties were violating the provisions of the Electoral Act but said the law was silent on the punishment. On Sunday, following a further enquiry by our correspondent, Idowu only referred to provisions of section 99(1) of the Electoral Act, 2010, which he said merely provided that campaigns could only commence 90 days before the day of election and must end 24 hours to the poll. The inquiry by our correspondent followed the various rallies being held around the country, especially by various groups who are seeking re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan. But Idowu said the law did not spell out the punishment for flouting it. Section 99(1) of the Electoral Act says, “For the purpose of this Act, the period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 90 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”
Posted on: Sun, 21 Sep 2014 19:44:04 +0000
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