By: Hassan Sambo Wunti
Vote buying is a cancer that has ravaged the fabric of our democracy. It's a menace that has prevented our elections from being credible and fair, undermining the very foundation of our governance. When individuals buy votes, they attempt to deceive the electorate into voting for someone who's not fit for public office.
Vote buying messes up the transparency of our elections, making it difficult to trust the outcome. It's like pulling a dirty drapery over a transparent window, obscuring the truth. This flagrantly violates Section 14(2)(a) of the Constitution, which states that sovereignty belongs to the people. By buying votes, individuals are substituting the authentic sovereign power of the people with their own interests.
When people enter authority by selling votes, it's challenging to have confidence in them. Vote buying makes us question whether they truly care about our lives or just about themselves. This erosion of faith undermines the foundation of democratic governance, as established in Chapter (II) of the Constitution.
A significant number of people who buy votes often don't face consequences, emboldening them to continue this practice. The Electoral Act of 2022 and the Constitution provide penalties for vote buying, but it's crucial that these laws are enforced. We need to hold those who engage in vote buying accountable and ensure that they face the full weight of the law.
Vote buying diverts attention from critical issues that affect our nation. Instead of discussing how to fix our nation's problems, we're busy trading votes. This means we don't get to hear good ideas from our leaders, and issues persist. It's a diversion from the constitutional requirement of providing security and well-being to the people.
While technology can enhance transparency in elections, vote buying remains a significant challenge. Even with advanced technology like the BVAS machine, vote buying can compromise the credibility of the electoral process.
To solve this issue: we must unite. The state should ensure that those who buy votes are brought to book, and citizens should understand the importance of honoring their civic duty. We need to address poverty and ensure that people aren't forced to sell their votes. By stopping vote buying, we can achieve free and fair elections, which will push our country forward.
Wunti, a student of Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Department of Mass Communication, wrote from Bauchi.
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