A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), TAF Africa, which champions the cause of Persons Living With Disabilities(PWD), and their inclusion in the nation’s electoral system, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to urgently reform its systems given the lapses observed in disability inclusion and vote buying during the just concluded Edo State governorship election.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the body, Jake Epelle, made the call during a briefing at the organisation’s PWD Election Hub on Sunday in Benin, where TAF Africa reviewed the election.
Epelle said the reforms needed to be carried out before the conduct of the Ondo State governorship election scheduled for November, were to allow for an inclusive and fair election.
“TAF Africa demands a full investigation into the lapses observed and immediate reforms to ensure that PWDs can participate in future elections with dignity, autonomy, and equality.
Some PWDs, he added could not vote independently as observed in their polling units.
“The critical absence of Braille Ballot guides and magnifying glasses in polling units where they were needed, including Agbado Polling Unit 25 and Oredo Ward 12 Unit 21, is inexcusable
“This failure forced blind voters to resort to assisted voting. Persons with albinism also faced challenges as magnifying glasses were not available in key areas. ”
He noted that physical accessibility was another issue, with some security agents preventing some PWDs from gaining access to their polling units.
In addition, Epelle said vote-buying activities in select polling units further disrupted the election process, creating an intimidating environment for vulnerable voters.
“INEC and law enforcement agencies must intensify efforts to prevent such activities, ensuring that voters, especially PWDs, are able to vote freely and without harassment.
He recommended the targeted deployment of assistive tools and enhanced training for INEC staff.
He, however, commended the general adherence to priority voting for persons with disabilities and the peaceful conduct of the election.
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