By Vivian Emoni
A Political Analyst, Dr Chinedu Amadi, says that improving party primaries and promoting transparency in leadership selection are key steps to strengthening democracy and building public confidence in the electoral process.
Amadi, also the President of Organisation for youth in International Trade and Commerce (OY-ITC), disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
He noted the growing concerns about delegate influence and financial pressures during party primaries, adding that leadership contests should prioritise ideas, integrity and readiness to serve.
He emphasised that conversations around electoral reforms should go beyond technology and address structural issues within party systems, particularly the role and conduct of delegates during candidate selection.
Amadi, also an Economist, explained that while electronic transmission of results can improve transparency, internal party processes remained critical to ensuring credible outcomes before general elections.
He also highlighted concern about perceptions that incumbents automatically secure party tickets, adding that competitive and transparent primaries encourage participation and strengthen internal democracy.
According to him, open contests help build confidence among party members and ensure that leadership positions remain accessible to qualified aspirants through fair procedures.
“Disagreements sometimes arise when party members feel candidate selection processes lack inclusiveness, leading to political realignments and internal tensions.
“Credible primaries can promote accountability and unity by ensuring candidates emerge through transparent and participatory processes.
“Many aspirants begin their political journeys with clear plans and community engagement but may encounter expectations related to mobilisation or financial support during primaries,” he said.
Amadi warned that excessive financial influence could overshadow merit and discourage capable individuals from participating fully in politics.
He said that broader socio-economic challenges may also shape behaviours within political systems, requiring institutional reforms and stronger ethical standards.
He added that internal party decisions significantly shape electoral outcomes because candidates selected during primaries often determine voters’ eventual choices.
He argued that strengthening party governance structures could enhance transparency and reduce perceptions of unfairness during candidate selection.
He noted also that credible leadership recruitment contributes to effective governance by promoting accountability and public trust.
He, however, recommended improved oversight, clear guidelines and consistent enforcement of party rules to support fair competition among aspirants.
The president encouraged citizens, delegates and party officials to recognise their responsibilities in sustaining democratic values while emphasising that transparent processes can improve political stability and encourage greater citizen participation.
He further noted that reforms should focus on strengthening institutions, promoting fairness and reinforcing ethical standards in politics.
According to him, collective commitment to credible primaries and responsible leadership selection remains essential for Nigeria’s democratic growth. (www.nanews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
