The Plateau State Youth Council (PYC) has cautioned all political parties participating in the forthcoming party primaries across the state to uphold the core values and principles of democracy by ensuring that the wishes and aspirations of party members are respected at all levels.
The PYC, in a Press statement signed and issued on Friday in Jos by the Chairman, Comrade Panan Gongden Dapar, strongly cautions against the imposition of candidates on the people, saying such actions undermine democratic ideals, weaken public confidence in the electoral process, and deny citizens the right to freely choose their preferred representatives.
“We equally urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), party leaders, stakeholders, and delegates to conduct themselves with fairness, transparency, and integrity throughout the exercise.
“Democracy thrives where justice, equity, and credibility are upheld, and all actors involved in this process must demonstrate commitment to free, fair, and credible primaries that reflect the genuine will of the people of Plateau.
The Council further draws attention to the fragile peace and stability being nurtured across Plateau State and warns that undemocratic practices such as candidate imposition, manipulation of results, and political intimidation could trigger avoidable tensions and violence.
“We therefore appeal to all stakeholders to place the peace, unity, and progress of Plateau State above personal or political interests, as no political ambition is worth the breakdown of law and order or the loss of lives.
While wishing all aspirants success in the upcoming primaries, especially young candidates seeking to contribute meaningfully to governance and leadership, the Plateau State Youth Council sincerely prays that the best, most competent, and capable hands emerge through transparent processes to provide purposeful leadership for the people of Plateau State.
“We remain hopeful that this democratic exercise will strengthen our political system and advance the collective interest of our dear state.
