In an announcement made by Ikechukwu Eze, the Special Adviser to former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, it was revealed that Jonathan has been appointed by the Commonwealth to head its Election Observation Mission to Pakistan.
Jonathan will lead a team of experts drawn from various fields within the Commonwealth to oversee the general elections slated for February 8 in Pakistan.
The objective of the mission is to offer an impartial and comprehensive evaluation of the electoral proceedings, ensuring adherence to international standards of fairness and transparency.
Assisting Jonathan, Linford Andrews, the Adviser and Head of the Electoral Support Section at the Commonwealth Secretariat, will lead a support team to aid the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) in fulfilling its mandate.
Scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on February 1, the 13-member observer group will remain in Pakistan until the conclusion of the electoral process, providing continuous assessment and feedback.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, expressed gratitude to Jonathan for accepting the assignment, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in promoting democratic values.
Additionally, Scotland lauded Pakistan’s commitment to openness and responsibility in conducting the elections. She reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s support for Pakistan’s democratic journey and urged all stakeholders to actively participate in ensuring a peaceful and equitable electoral process.
Furthermore, Scotland pledged to deliver a comprehensive report containing recommendations for enhancing future electoral procedures to the Pakistani government, the Election Commission, and other relevant entities.
Ada Peter
