The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially adopted the indirect primary method to select its candidate for the upcoming Anambra State gubernatorial election. The decision was announced following a crucial meeting of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.
The announcement marks a significant step in the party’s preparations for the Anambra governorship poll scheduled for later this year. The indirect primary method, which involves the selection of the party’s flag bearer by delegates rather than through a direct vote by all registered members, was adopted after extensive deliberations among party stakeholders.
Rationale Behind Indirect Primary Adoption
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, explained that the indirect primary method was deemed the most appropriate for the Anambra election due to logistical considerations and security concerns.
“The decision to adopt the indirect primary system aligns with the best practices and prevailing realities in Anambra State. This method will ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible process for selecting our gubernatorial candidate,” Morka stated.
He further emphasized that the method would allow for broader consultation among party leaders, ensuring that the most suitable candidate emerges to represent the party.
Stakeholders’ Reactions
The decision has elicited mixed reactions among party members and political analysts. Some party members have expressed optimism that the indirect primary method will foster consensus and unity, while others fear it could be manipulated to favor certain aspirants.
A party chieftain from Anambra, Chief Ifeanyi Okeke, commended the NWC’s decision, describing it as a strategic move to prevent external interference and streamline the selection process.
“The indirect primary system will help the party avoid unnecessary distractions and uphold internal democracy. It allows those who have been working for the party to have a stronger voice in choosing our candidate,” Okeke said.
However, some aspirants who preferred the direct primary method have voiced concerns. One of the gubernatorial hopefuls, Dr. John Nwankwo, argued that the direct primary system would have been more transparent and inclusive.
“Direct primaries would have given every registered party member a chance to participate in the selection process. The indirect method might disenfranchise many loyal party members,” Nwankwo lamented.
Ensuring Transparency
In response to concerns about possible manipulation, the APC leadership has assured members that the entire process will be transparent and credible. Morka revealed that the party will set up an independent monitoring committee to oversee the primary election.
“We are committed to conducting a free, fair, and credible primary election. Measures will be put in place to ensure that the delegates’ votes reflect the will of the party members,” he assured.
The party has also promised to conduct background checks on all delegates to prevent undue influence and maintain the integrity of the process.
Road Ahead for APC
With the adoption of the indirect primary method, the APC is now set to begin the screening of gubernatorial aspirants. The screening exercise is expected to take place in the coming weeks, with the primary election slated for April.
The APC’s candidate will face stiff competition from other major political parties, including the incumbent All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), both of which have strong support bases in the state.
Political analysts believe that the outcome of the APC primary election will play a crucial role in determining the party’s chances of winning the Anambra gubernatorial poll. The party is keen to present a united front and avoid internal wrangling that could weaken its chances.
Conclusion
The adoption of the indirect primary method by the APC for the Anambra gubernatorial election is a strategic decision aimed at fostering unity and transparency within the party. While the method has sparked both commendations and criticisms, the party’s leadership has pledged to ensure a credible and transparent selection process.
As the political landscape in Anambra continues to take shape ahead of the election, all eyes will be on the APC to see how it navigates its internal processes and presents a formidable candidate capable of challenging the ruling party in the state.
