The National Electoral Commission (NEC, on Tuesday, distanced itself from reports that it ordered the collection of money from residents to help fund the polls. The Commission, made the announcement after it emerged that in some parts of the city, local leaders were soliciting money from residents, claiming the money was meant to finance the preparation of polling centres. The NEC Chairperson, made it clear, during a press briefing on Tuesday, that no one has the right to solicit for money, anywhere in the country, in the name of NEC. The Commission has all the necessary resources to effectively organize and conduct the forthcoming Presidential elections. The reports have since riled NEC, as they undermine its otherwise impeccable reputation. And cases of our leaders soliciting money illegally are something alien to our culture. What is known about our local leaders is honesty and implementation of what is approved by government. So, who are these leaders soliciting money from the electorate on behalf of NEC or what could be their motive? What NEC needs to do is commission a detailed investigation and establish who these leaders are, because they have already tarnished the Commission’s image. Who knows, may be these people are not just soliciting for money. The solution, therefore, lies in establishing a system that will crack down and sustain the prevention of this menace ever happening again. And, those found guilty should be brought to book. Ends
