The National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters has put forward a proposal to reduce the salaries of legislators and executive members by 30% and 40%, respectively.
The committee discussed the proposal today, Monday September 2 during an interactive session led by Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.
The session included members of the judiciary and representatives from political parties, focusing on the review and amendment of the Electoral Act 2022.
The proposed salary cuts aim to reduce government expenditure and are part of a broader discussion on cost-saving measures.
The committee also reviewed other proposals, including conducting all elections; presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and State Houses of Assembly, on a single day to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Additionally, political parties suggested linking voter registration to the National Identity Number (NIN) for improved security and cost efficiency.
They also proposed that the appointment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman should no longer be the responsibility of the executive branch but rather be an open process advertised to interested candidates.
Senator Alli assured that the joint committee would continue to engage with INEC and the public to ensure that future elections are conducted smoothly and with minimal disruptions.