Jos, Plateau State – June 20, 2024:
The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Hon. Plangi Daniel Cishak, addressed the press today, outlining his vision and plans for ensuring credible local government elections in Plateau State.
Speaking at a press conference, Cishak expressed profound gratitude to God and appreciation to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for the trust placed in him and his team. He also thanked the Speaker and members of the Plateau State House of Assembly for confirming all Commission members despite political differences, prioritizing the state’s interest.
“Our foremost intention is to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of Plateau State citizens are heard and their votes count in the choice of local leaders,” Cishak stated. He emphasized PLASIEC’s commitment to strengthening the electoral framework from the ward level to the local government through credible election processes.
Cishak announced that PLASIEC has already begun readiness checks, identifying administrative and operational gaps, and developing policies aimed at ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. “Our goal is to establish a level playing field that instills confidence in all political parties within the state,” he said.
Under Cishak’s leadership, PLASIEC aims to ensure that every citizen of Plateau State can exercise their democratic right to vote. He pledged to nurture democratic leadership structures at the local level, promoting transparency, fairness, professionalism, and inclusivity in the election process.
Cishak highlighted the importance of partnerships with media practitioners, political parties, security agencies, development partners such as the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), YAGA Africa, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. “Your role as members of the Fourth Estate is pivotal in disseminating our messages and projecting the transparent processes we aim to implement,” he noted.
Emphasizing PLASIEC’s core values of integrity, innovation, impartiality, inclusivity, and transparency, Cishak called on the media to collaborate closely with the Commission. He urged journalists to verify stories to prevent misinformation, ensuring accurate communication of PLASIEC’s efforts.
Cishak called on all citizens of Plateau State to join in rebuilding and reorganizing the electoral institution. “Let us unite to create a system we can all be proud of—one where democracy flourishes, and governance reflects the will of the people,” he appealed.
The PLASIEC Chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s vision to contribute to the growth of democratic ideals in Plateau State and positively impact democracy in Nigeria. He assured that their mission to conduct credible local government elections according to established rules and global best practices remains unwavering.
In his closing remarks, Cishak reaffirmed PLASIEC’s commitment to excellence. “We will identify and address challenges, implement innovative solutions, and maintain an open-door policy to rebuild trust and restore hope in the electoral process among Plateau citizens,” he pledged.
Cishak concluded by expressing his anticipation for close collaboration with all stakeholders to achieve the shared goals for Plateau State.
