By Chief Okoi Obono-Obla
Some underperforming members of the National Assembly, fearful of a fair primary election process, have resorted to planting stories in the media, claiming that the party would implode if they were denied tickets. This tactic—cheap emotional blackmail—reeks of desperation and ignorance. Fortunately, the party has refused to be intimidated by their bluff.
It is disheartening that legislators, who should embody democratic principles, have resorted to such inferior methods simply because they are desperate for second terms. They fail to recognize that the most effective path to re-election is through performance and genuine service to their constituents.
Rather than engaging meaningfully with the people who elected them, some of these lawmakers became inaccessible the moment they were sworn in two years ago. Calls from constituents seeking dialogue were ignored, while grassroots leaders who worked tirelessly to deliver them into office were shunned.
Their selfishness extends beyond mere disengagement; they manipulate the system for personal gain. Instead of awarding contracts for constituency projects to local party leaders—an act that could empower communities and alleviate poverty—they hoard these opportunities for themselves, hiding behind fronts and fake contractors. By doing so, they sustain a cycle of poverty and dependency, weaponizing it as a means to control their people rather than uplift them.
As the primary election approaches, the party must remain resolute in rejecting manipulative tactics and rewarding integrity and performance. The people deserve leaders who prioritize service over selfish ambition.
Chief Okoi Obono-Obla
