Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the former president of Nigeria, has been named by the Commonwealth to lead its Election Observation Mission to Pakistan’s general election, which is set for February 8, 2024.
Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan’s assistant, revealed this in a statement on Wednesday.
The 13-member Observer Group is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on February 1 and will stay there until the election is over, according to a statement from the Commonwealth Secretariat.
The former president of Nigeria, Jonathan, was congratulated by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, in a letter to him. She also mentioned that the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) will gain from his leadership, experience, and knowledge.
Scotland said: “I am grateful that the former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has once again accepted our invitation to serve as Chair of an election observer group. The team of observers will assess the conduct of the process as a whole and, where appropriate, make recommendations for the further strengthening of the electoral system.
“It is hoped that these recommendations will be of benefit to the people and government of Pakistan in strengthening their electoral processes. The Commonwealth Secretariat would be ready to assist with this process, if deemed necessary.”
In keeping with the Commonwealth ideals, she also urged all parties involved, as well as their supporters, to work toward a peaceful election.
The Commonwealth added that COG members will watch and take into account every facet of the election process throughout Pakistan, from polling place opening and voting to ballot counting and results declaration.
The announcement also stated that the election commission and the Pakistani government would get a final report that includes suggestions for enhancing upcoming elections. Other interested parties will also receive access to the report.
