Anambra State House of Assembly Makes Third Amendment to State Electoral Law
In a move aimed at ensuring clarity and stability in the local government system, the Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a new amendment to the State Electoral Law. This is the third amendment this year, and it comes just 16 days before the scheduled local government elections on September 28, 2024.
According to Obi Nweke, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions, the amendment was necessary to avoid a lacuna in the future and ensure clarity in the local government system. The new law, which takes effect from September 12, 2024, pegs the tenure of Local Government Chairmen and Councillors at two years.
The implication of the new law is that both local government chairmen and councillors will serve for two years, unlike the previous law which specified only the chairman and deputy’s tenure. This means that the local government council will be dissolved at the expiration of a two-year period, commencing from the date of inauguration.
The amendment inserts a new sub-section 4 into Section 110 of the Principal Law, which will come into effect on September 12, 2024. This change is expected to bring about stability and consistency in the local government system, allowing chairmen and councillors to focus on serving their communities without the uncertainty of their tenure.
The new law is seen as a positive development, as it will allow for a smoother transition and ensure that local government leaders are accountable to the people they serve. With the local government elections just around the corner, this amendment is expected to have a significant impact on the outcome of the polls.
The Anambra State House of Assembly’s decision to amend the State Electoral Law is a testament to its commitment to ensuring good governance and transparency in the state. As the country moves towards the local government elections, this amendment is a welcome development that will promote stability and accountability in the local government system.
