The Citizens Network for Peace and Development in Nigeria (CNPDN), a prominent advocacy group, has called on the Nigerian Senate to adopt an open balloting system for the election of its top two officers, the Senate President and Deputy Senate President.
Adamu Ibrahim, the organization’s North-East coordinator, made this request in a statement to the media.
In their statement, the CNPDN commended the Senate for amending its Standing Rules to clarify the criteria for ‘ranking’ in the selection of presiding officers.
They also praised the decision to prevent first-time Senators from running for these positions, aligning with established global legislative practices that prioritize experienced leaders.
The statement underlined the significance of legislative experience, citing the American Model of Democracy and individuals like Kevin Owen McCarthy, who leveraged their years of service to become Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.
The CNPDN urged the Nigerian Senate to revisit its method of electing Presiding Officers and recommended the adoption of an open ballot system, which is common in both developed and developing countries.
They called for an amendment to Senate rules to mandate the use of the open ballot system for such elections.
In conclusion, the CNPDN applauded the 10th Senate for its forward-thinking approach and encouraged them to continue in the same direction.
