By David Onwuchekwa
With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially fixing August 16 as the date for the Anambra South Senatorial by-election, the political atmosphere in the district is gradually heating up.
As various aspirants increase their tempo in sensitization to vie for the coveted seat, it is important that campaigns are conducted with maturity, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility.
This is not the time for name-calling, mudslinging, or character assassination. Rather, it is a moment for aspirants to engage the electorate with well-articulated ideas, practical solutions to the Senatorial district’s pressing challenges, and clear-cut plans for sustainable development.
The people of Anambra South deserve a representative who is not just popular, but also capable, visionary, and ready to speak for them at the national stage.
Political parties also have a huge role to play in this process. They must quickly organize transparent and credible primaries to allow aspirants to test their popularity within the party structure and know where they stand.
Dragging feet in this regard only fuels uncertainty and places undue financial and emotional pressure on aspirants who continue to spend resources without a clear sense of direction or finality.
A timely and fair primary process will also help douse tension and prevent internal party crises that could spill into the general contest. In the end, democracy is better served when the process is clean, inclusive, and based on merit, not manipulation or favoritism.
As the countdown to August 16 begins, let this by-election serve as a model for political maturity and electoral integrity. The people are watching and they deserve nothing less than the best.
