Nigeria: MPs propose a single 6-year presidential term
In Nigeria, efforts are underway to reduce electoral violence and stabilize the political process by proposing a significant change in the presidential mandate structure.
Currently, the Nigerian Constitution states that the President is elected for a four-year term, renewable once.
However, this electoral system has often been accompanied by tensions and deadly violence.
Recently, Nigerian lawmakers have suggested implementing a single six-year term for the President, hoping that this reform will help reduce the recurring conflicts associated with elections.
The proposal aims to lessen the intensity of political struggles and provide leaders with more time to implement policies without the constant urgency of preparing for reelection.
However, this proposal faces challenges and criticisms. Some opponents in Nigeria fear that a single term could encourage authoritarianism by allowing a President to stay in power without being accountable to the electorate for reelection.
Moreover, there are concerns about the concentration of power and the potential decrease in democratic accountability.
For this proposal to become a reality, it needs approval from the National Assembly and must undergo a constitutional review process, which requires broad political consensus.
Discussions on this reform are likely to continue sparking intense debates among lawmakers, political experts, and the general public.
Neil CAMARA
