Dominica Citizenship an ideal Plan B for wealthy Kenyan investors

Roseau, July 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States tighten their grips on immigration policies, Kenyan investors are feeling the pinch of hyperinflation and global markets affecting their abilities to trade and travel to these countries.

Kenyan investors are making the most of the citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes in the Caribbean, more particularly in the Commonwealth of Dominica. Dominica CBI programme offers better lifestyle opportunities from quality education to healthcare system; the country has some of the best medical facilities in the world, with financial support from the CBI programme. the country’s official language is English, closely followed by Dominican Creole, which is French based, amongst local citizens.

The ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’ is also economically and politically stable, and it is one of the fastest-growing economies in the Caribbean region. The IMF predicted that the country would exceed growth of over 4.5 per cent for 2023, including the full recovery of the tourism sector post-pandemic, as the construction of the geothermal power plant and the new international airport are projected to support Dominica’s gross domestic product (GDP), as well as the expansion of Douglas Charles Airport runway.

In May this year, Dominica Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, alongside Dominica Education Minister, Octavia Alfred, and Parliamentary Secretary, Fenella Wenham-Sheppard, had met with principles from secondary schools to discuss the education reform in the country. The discussion included possibilities to review the national education system. These discussions are to effect change towards a stronger education system to ensure all students in Dominica can access fundamental education and develop their learning experiences.

Dominica has quality healthcare facilities that align with international standards. Earlier this year, Honourable Dr. Skerrit announced changes to the country’s healthcare policy that Dominican citizens should all have access to quality medical facilities, despite their economic status and the Dominican youth between 16 to 18 years of age will have access to free medical care in the country. The Minister of Health, Wellness and Social Services of Dominica, Cassani Laville, guided a tour around the Marigot hospital and the state-of-the-art medical treatment facilities that will be available to the public from July 2023. The Marigot Hospital is another representation of the government of Dominica’s goals in becoming the world’s first climate-resilient nation.

The island is also an ideal retirement location for senior Kenyan citizens, with additional healthcare benefits. Dominica’s CBI Programme has sustained a flourishing expat community by providing opportunities in a favourable business environment, and for their families to reside in a safe and secure lifestyle.

Dominica CBI Programme

Dominica CBI Programme is one of the youngest and most affordable CBI programmes in the Caribbean region and one of the most recognised globally. A “Plan B” for Kenyans to secure their personal well-being, families and the future of their businesses, in a world filled with uncertainties. There are two distinct investment options that have favourable offerings for Kenyan investors to acquaint themselves with.

Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)

For as little as US$100,000 (estimated KSh14,000.000), the EDF is an investment option centered around socio-economic development. This is an element in the national capital mobilisation portfolio. Funds accumulated through EDF support the construction of schools, the development of medical facilities, agriculture and tourism sectors, as well construction of a national sports stadium.

Dominica is actively striving to become the world’s first climate-resilient country and fulfil sustainable development goals. Various government projects such as the planning of the geothermal power plant have gained traction in the latest developments. A Joint Venture between Dominica Geothermal Development Company and a Trinidad and Tobago company, Kenesjay Green, are driving the advancements of the geothermal and hydrogen projects in Dominica. Evolving the country’s energy into renewable energy will make Dominica one of the global exporters of green hydrogen energy, as well as propel economic development in key sectors such as tourism.

Launched in 2018, the Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica (CREAD) was formed to strategically support the economic development of the country. There are 20 targets, which are separated into 6 categories that are strong communities; Robust Economy; Durable Infrastructure; Enhanced Institutional Systems; Collective Consciousness; and Protected and Sustainability Leveraged Natural and Other unique Assets. that are highlighted that Dominica aims to achieve by the year 2030.

These are noteworthy government initiatives that are tackling climate change critical to Dominica for preparedness and preservation of the natural environment around the Nature Isle of the Caribbean.

Real Estate

Kenyan investors can splurge on the Real Estate investment option that has a variety of government-approved properties that offer unique luxurious experiences for affluent Kenyans that seek decadent lifestyle choices. The minimum contribution amount is US$200,000 (estimated KSh36,000,000) towards an approved real estate property.

This investment option has the flexibility of permitting Kenyans to hold the real estate property for a period of three years from the date of citizenship approval, or for five years should the potential future buyer be a CBI applicant.

There are government fees attached to each application should the main Kenyan applicant want to include dependants, which consists of a spouse (next of kin):

  • US$25,000 (estimated KSh3,500,000) for the main applicant;
  • US35,000 (estimated KSh4,900,000) for the main applicant and up to three dependants;
  • US$50,000 (estimated KSh7,000,000) for the main applicant and up to five dependants;
  • US$25,000 (estimated KSh3,500,000) for additional dependants.

There are due diligence and processing fees applied per application.

Dominica has some of the global award-winning unique real estate properties that are on-demand and have potentially high Return on Investment (ROI) earnings for discerning Kenyan investors.

Dominica’s first government-approved real estate is the InternContinental Dominica Carbits Resort & Spa, the luxurious property is located on the beachfront of Douglas Bay that boasts sustainable elements which furnish memorable experiences that Kenyans will have like never before.

The Residences at Secret Bay are deemed the crown jewel of the Nature Isle of the Caribbean. The eco-luxury villas received recognition from Travel + Leisure, Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, Forbes and many more reputable global publications. From breathtaking views, activities for thrill seekers and luxurious dining experiences, the Secret Bay is nothing less than spectacular.

Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort and Spa will be located in Roseau Valley, which will offer a truly serene eco-luxury resort that morphs with nature. The resort is currently being constructed in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park and will be nestled close to Middleham Falls. The resort will have high-end luxury spa facilities and fine-dining restaurants.

Chantal Mabanga
Commonwealth of Dominica
+44 (0) 207 318 4343
chantal.mabanga@csglobalpartners.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8873103

LeddarTech and Ficosa Intensify Collaboration for Innovative Smart Parking Assistant

QUEBEC CITY, July 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech®, an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology for ADAS and AD, is thrilled to announce the successful integration of LeddarTech’s advanced LeddarVision™ software with Ficosa’s cutting-edge surround-view camera system, along with other sensors such as radars, IMU and GPS. Ficosa is a leading global company dedicated to the research, development, production and marketing of advanced vision, safety and efficiency solutions for the automotive industry.

This significant milestone marks a major step forward in the strategic collaboration announced in December 2022 by Ficosa regarding integrating the LeddarVision software into Ficosa’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for parking. LeddarVision is a high-performance sensor fusion and perception software stack that provides extremely accurate 3D models of the vehicle’s surroundings, developed using raw data inputs from sensor systems. Integrating this software with Ficosa’s renowned vision technology unlocks the full potential of this software to enable Ficosa’s smart parking assistant for ADAS and AD.

In pursuit of their shared vision towards the consolidation of the autonomous vehicle, LeddarTech and Ficosa continue to strengthen their strategic collaboration towards developing a pioneering Intelligent Parking Assistance system, allowing even more detailed and precise perception of the surroundings. The hardware and software system architecture teams will begin equipping a car in Israel that will be used, in collaboration, to develop and demonstrate the smart parking assistance perception and driving features. Following this, two other vehicles in Europe will be added to the fleet showcasing the full software and hardware implementation for smart parking assist.

“LeddarTech is very pleased to partner in this collaboration and celebrate the success of integrating our LeddarVision software and Ficosa vision technology.” So stated Charles Boulanger, CEO of LeddarTech. “This relationship is driven by our commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology by delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance safety, efficiency and driver experiences. Our team is very excited to continue working with Ficosa on the next phase of the collaboration,” Mr. Boulanger concluded.

“At Ficosa, we strive to contribute to building a safer, more comfortable and efficient mobility of the future for everyone,” stated Josep Maria Forcadell, Chief Technology Officer at Ficosa. “In this sense, this innovative, intelligent automatic parking assistant that combines the fusion of LeddarTech’s low-level sensor and perception capabilities and Ficosa’s surround-view camera system will have a significantly positive impact, providing even more detailed and accurate perception of the environment,” Mr. Forcadell concluded.

About Ficosa

Ficosa is a leading global company dedicated to the research, development, production and marketing of advanced vision, safety and efficiency solutions for the automotive industry, with a vocation to contribute to society through its commitment to technological innovation, human values and energy efficiency. Founded in 1949 and with headquarters in Barcelona, Ficosa currently employs more than 8,500 people and has production and R&D centers and sales offices in Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa. The Rear-View System (interior/side mirror) is Ficosa’s main, globally renowned business, which is recognized by the world’s leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). www.ficosa.com

Social media: Twitter @FICOSA_Int; LinkedIn Ficosa

For more information: Ficosa Communication Department
Mònica Acero: [email protected] +34 615 07 59 81
Pau Guerrero: [email protected]

About LeddarTech

A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal, Toronto and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS and autonomous driving (AD) applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment, allowing for better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 150 patents granted or applied for that enhance ADAS and AD capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

Contact:
Daniel Aitken, Vice-President, Global Marketing, Communications and Investor Relations, LeddarTech Inc. Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ext. 232 [email protected]

Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8871621

LeddarTech e Ficosa Intensificam Colaboração para Assistente de Estacionamento Inteligente Inovador

QUEBEC, July 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A LeddarTech®, uma empresa de software automotivo que fornece tecnologia patenteada de software de fusão e percepção de sensores de baixo nível para ADAS e AD, tem o prazer de anunciar o sucesso da integração do avançado software LeddarVision™ da LeddarTech com o sistema de câmeras de visualização surround de ponta da Ficosa, juntamente com outros sensores tais como radares, IMU e GPS. A Ficosa é uma empresa líder global dedicada à pesquisa, desenvolvimento, produção e comercialização de soluções avançadas de visão, segurança e eficiência para a indústria automotiva.

Este marco significativo marca um grande passo em frente na colaboração estratégica anunciada em dezembro de 2022 pela Ficosa em relação à integração do software LeddarVision nos sistemas avançados de assistência ao motorista (ADAs) da Ficosa para estacionamento. O LeddarVision é uma pilha de software de fusão e percepção de sensores de alto desempenho que fornece modelos 3D extremamente precisos dos arredores do veículo, desenvolvidos usando entradas de dados brutos de sistemas de sensores. A integração deste software com a renomada tecnologia de visão da Ficosa libera todo o potencial deste software para viabilizar o assistente de estacionamento inteligente da Ficosa para ADAS e AD.

Em busca da sua visão compartilhada da consolidação do veículo autônomo, a LeddarTech e a Ficosa continuam a fortalecer sua colaboração estratégica para o desenvolvimento de um sistema pioneiro de Assistência ao Estacionamento Inteligente, permitindo uma percepção ainda mais detalhada e precisa do entorno. As equipes de arquitetura de sistemas de hardware e software irão equipar um veículo em Israel que será usado, em colaboração, para desenvolver e demonstrar a percepção de assistência de estacionamento inteligente e os recursos de direção. Depois disso, dois outros veículos na Europa serão adicionados à frota, exibindo a implementação completa de software e hardware para assistência de estacionamento inteligente.

“É com prazer que a LeddarTech se associa a esta colaboração e comemora o sucesso da integração do nosso software LeddarVision com a tecnologia de visão da Ficosa.” Disse Boulanger, CEO da LeddarTech. “Esse relacionamento é impulsionado pelo nosso compromisso de expandir os limites da tecnologia automotiva, por meio do fornecimento de soluções de ponta que aprimoram a segurança, eficiência e experiências do motorista. Nossa equipe está muito animada para dar continuidade ao trabalho com a Ficosa na próxima fase da colaboração”, concluiu Boulanger.

“A Ficosa se dedica à contribuição para a criação de uma mobilidade mais segura, confortável e eficiente do futuro para todos”, disse Josep Maria Forcadell, Diretor de Tecnologia da Ficosa. “Nesse sentido, este inovador e inteligente assistente de estacionamento automático que combina a fusão dos recursos de sensor e percepção de baixo nível da LeddarTech com o sistema de câmera de visão surround da Ficosa terá um impacto significativamente positivo, proporcionando uma percepção ainda mais detalhada e precisa do ambiente”, concluiu o Sr. Forcadell.

Sobre a Ficosa

A Ficosa é uma empresa líder global dedicada à pesquisa, desenvolvimento, produção e comercialização de soluções avançadas de visão, segurança e eficiência para a indústria automotiva, dedicada à contribuição para a sociedade com o seu compromisso com a inovação tecnológica, valores humanos e eficiência energética. Fundada em 1949 e com sede em Barcelona, a Ficosa emprega atualmente mais de 8.500 pessoas, possui centros de produção e P&D e escritórios de vendas na Europa, América do Norte e do Sul, Ásia e África. O Sistema de Visão Traseira (retrovisor interno/lateral) é o principal ramo de atividade de renome mundial da Ficosa, reconhecido pelos principais fabricantes de equipamentos originais (OEMs) do mundo. www.ficosa.com

Redes sociais: Twitter @FICOSA_Int; LinkedIn Ficosa

Para mais informações: Departamento de Comunicação da Ficosa
Mònica Acero: [email protected] +34 615 07 59 81
Pau Guerrero: [email protected]

Sobre a LeddarTech

Uma empresa global de software fundada em 2007 e sediada na cidade de Quebec, com centros adicionais de P&D em Montreal, Toronto e Tel Aviv, Israel, a LeddarTech desenvolve e fornece soluções abrangentes de software de percepção que permitem a implantação de aplicações ADAS e de condução autônoma (AD). O software de nível automotivo da LeddarTech aplica algoritmos avançados de IA e visão computacional para gerar modelos 3D precisos do ambiente, permitindo uma melhor tomada de decisão e navegação mais segura. Esta tecnologia de alto desempenho, escalonável e econômica é disponível para OEMs e fornecedores de Nível 1-2 para a implementação eficiente de soluções ADAS para veículos automotivos e off-road.

A LeddarTech é responsável por várias inovações de sensor remoto, com mais de 150 patentes concedidas ou solicitadas que aprimoram os recursos de ADAS e AD. A percepção de veículos é fundamental para tornar a mobilidade global mais segura, eficiente, sustentável e acessível: e é por isso que a LeddarTech deseja se tornar a solução de software de fusão e percepção de sensores mais amplamente adotada.

Para mais informação sobre a LeddarTech visite www.leddartech.com, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook e YouTube.

Contato:
Daniel Aitken, Vice-Presidente, Marketing Global, Comunicações e Relacionamento com o Investidor, LeddarTech Inc. Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ramal 232 [email protected]

Os logotipos Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision e afins são marcas comerciais ou marcas comerciais registradas da LeddarTech Inc. e suas subsidiárias. Todas as outras marcas e nomes de produtos são ou podem ser marcas comerciais ou marcas comerciais registradas usadas para identificar produtos ou serviços de seus respectivos proprietários.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8872569

LeddarTech et Ficosa renforcent leur collaboration dans le développement d’un assistant de stationnement intelligent innovateur

QUÉBEC, 12 juill. 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech®, une société de logiciels automobiles qui fournit des technologies logicielles de fusion bas niveau de capteurs et de perception innovatrices et brevetées pour systèmes avancés d’aide à la conduite (systèmes ADAS) et de conduite autonome (systèmes AD), est heureuse d’annoncer l’intégration réussie de son logiciel avancé LeddarVision™ avec le système de vision périphérique de pointe de Ficosa, ainsi qu’avec d’autres capteurs comme des radars, une IMU et un GPS. Ficosa est une entreprise mondiale de premier plan dédiée à la recherche, au développement, à la production et à la commercialisation de solutions de vision, de sécurité et d’efficacité avancées pour l’industrie automobile.

Cette étape importante marque un grand pas en avant dans la collaboration stratégique annoncée en décembre 2022 par Ficosa portant sur l’intégration du logiciel LeddarVision dans les systèmes ADAS de Ficosa pour le stationnement. LeddarVision est un logiciel de fusion de capteurs et de perception performant qui génère des modèles 3D extrêmement précis de l’environnement du véhicule, élaborés à partir des données brutes en provenance des capteurs. L’intégration de ce logiciel avec la technologie de vision réputée de Ficosa met en évidence le plein potentiel d’utilisation de l’assistant de stationnement intelligent de Ficosa dans les systèmes ADAS et AD.

Dans le cadre de leur vision commune de la consolidation du véhicule autonome, LeddarTech et Ficosa continuent de renforcer leur collaboration stratégique en vue de développer un assistant de stationnement intelligent avant-gardiste, permettant une perception de l’environnement encore plus détaillée. Les équipes d’architecture matérielle et logicielle commenceront à équiper une voiture en Israël qui sera utilisée, en collaboration, pour développer et démontrer les fonctionnalités de perception touchant la conduite et l’aide au stationnement intelligentes. Ensuite, deux autres véhicules seront ajoutés à la flotte en Europe afin de présenter la mise en œuvre logicielle et matérielle complète entourant l’aide au stationnement intelligente.

« LeddarTech est très heureuse de participer à cette collaboration et de célébrer le succès de l’intégration de son logiciel LeddarVision et de la technologie de vision de Ficosa », a fait remarquer Charles Boulanger, chef de la direction de LeddarTech. « Cette relation est motivée par notre engagement à repousser les limites de la technologie automobile en fournissant des solutions de pointe qui améliorent la sécurité, l’efficacité et l’expérience conducteur. Notre équipe est enthousiaste à l’idée de continuer à travailler avec Ficosa sur la prochaine phase de la collaboration », a conclu M. Boulanger.

« Chez Ficosa, nous nous efforçons de contribuer à la construction d’une mobilité future plus sûre, plus confortable et plus efficace pour tout le monde », a indiqué pour sa part Josep Maria Forcadell, chef de la technologie chez Ficosa. « Dans ce sens, cet assistant de stationnement automatique intelligent innovateur, qui combine les fonctionnalités de fusion de bas niveau et de perception de LeddarTech et le système de vision périphérique de Ficosa, aura un impact positif important en permettant une perception encore plus précise et détaillée de l’environnement », a conclu M. Forcadell.

À propos de Ficosa

Ficosa est une entreprise mondiale de premier plan dédiée à la recherche, au développement, à la production et à la commercialisation de solutions de vision, de sécurité et d’efficacité avancées pour l’industrie automobile, et qui a pour vocation de contribuer à la société par son engagement dans l’innovation technologique, les valeurs humaines et l’efficacité énergétique. Fondée en 1949 et basée à Barcelone, Ficosa emploie actuellement plus de 8 500 personnes et dispose de centres de production et de R&D ainsi que de bureaux de vente en Europe, en Amérique du Nord et du Sud, en Asie et en Afrique. Le système de surveillance de recul intelligent IRMS de Ficosa, le produit phare de l’entreprise, est reconnu par les principaux équipementiers automobiles du monde entier.   www.ficosa.com

Médias sociaux : Twitter @FICOSA_Int; LinkedIn Ficosa

Pour renseignements : service des communications de Ficosa
Mònica Acero : [email protected] +34 615 07 59 81
Pau Guerrero : [email protected]

À propos de LeddarTech

Entreprise mondiale de logiciels fondée en 2007, basée à Québec et disposant de centres de R&D supplémentaires à Montréal, Toronto et Tel Aviv (Israël), LeddarTech développe et propose des solutions de perception logicielles complètes qui permettent le déploiement d’applications ADAS et de conduite autonome (AD). Le logiciel de classe automobile de LeddarTech applique l’intelligence artificielle avancée et des algorithmes de vision numérique afin de générer des modèles 3D précis de l’environnement, pour une meilleure prise de décision et une navigation plus sûre. Cette technologie performante, évolutive et économique permet la mise en œuvre efficace de solutions ADAS pour véhicules automobiles et hors route par les équipementiers et fournisseurs de rang 1 et 2.

Détentrice de plus de 150 brevets accordés ou déposés qui améliorent les capacités des systèmes d’aide à la conduite et de conduite autonome, l’entreprise a contribué à plusieurs innovations liées à des applications de télédétection. Une plus grande conscience situationnelle est essentielle pour rendre la mobilité plus sûre, efficace, durable et abordable : c’est ce qui motive LeddarTech à vouloir devenir la solution logicielle de fusion des données de capteurs et de perception la plus largement adoptée.

Renseignements complémentaires disponibles sur www.leddartech.com et sur LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook et YouTube.

Contact :
Daniel Aitken, vice-président, Marketing, communications et relations avec les investisseurs mondiaux, LeddarTech Inc.
Tél. : + 1-418-653-9000 poste 232 [email protected]

Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision et les logos associés sont des marques de commerce ou des marques déposées de LeddarTech Inc. et de ses filiales. Tous les autres noms de marques, noms de produits et marques sont ou peuvent être des marques de commerce ou des marques déposées utilisées pour désigner les produits ou les services de leurs propriétaires respectifs.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8871621

Stage 6 load shedding returns at 2pm

Stage 4 load shedding has been implemented immediately with Stage 6 expected to return from 2pm this afternoon (Wednesday).

This as state power utility Eskom continues to battle generation unit breakdowns.

By Tuesday afternoon, some 16 313MW were offline due to breakdowns with further losses overnight.

“Due to the loss of additional generating units overnight, the extensive use of Open Gas Cycle Turbines and the inability to replenish pumped storage dam levels, Stage 4 load shedding will be implemented at 7am [on Wednesday] until 2pm.

“Thereafter, Stage 6 load shedding will be implemented from 14:00 today until 05:00 on Thursday. This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will publish an update as soon as any significant changes occur,” Eskom said.

The power utility said on Tuesday that delays in returning units to service and increased demand is adding additional strain to the power system.

“A generating unit at Matla and two generating units at Kriel power stations were taken out of service due to breakdowns. The delays in returning to service a generating unit at Kendal and two generating units at Tutuka power stations are contributing to the current capacity constraints. Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service.

“We appeal to the members of the public to assist in reducing demand and we would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 5pm to 9pm, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load shedding,” Eskom said.

Source: South African Government News Agency

Onoja tasks political leaders on credible, transparent electoral process

Former Military Administrator of Plateau and Katsina State, retired Maj.-Gen. Lawrence Onoja, has urged political leaders to promote credible and transparent electoral process that guarantee citizens’ participation in governance.

Onoja made the call in a keynote delivered at a National Peacebuilding Conference with theme: “Electoral process, governance, democracy, security and conflict resolution in 2023 general elections” in Abuja on Tuesday.

The conference was organised by the Institute for Crisis Resolution, Peacebuilding and Conciliation (ICRCP) in collaboration with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Jabi.

“Internationally, democracy is a licence for gaining access to international diplomacy, finance, trade, investment, sports, entertainment, tourism, humanitarianism, defense and security.

“As countries rush to obtain this tagging of being democratic, Nigeria should distinguish its brand of democracy with adherence to critical principles of democracy that include rule of law, justice.

“Respect for human rights, provision of welfare, and human security for the citizens, transparency and accountability, open government, citizens participation and inclusiveness.

“It is imperative therefore, that political leaders encourage, imbibe, accept and celebrate transparent, credible and open electoral process as a fundamental national security commitment and minimum benchmarking, guaranteeing the equal participation of Nigerians in the governance of their affairs, “ Onoja said.

He said that electoral process was very crucial and central to democracy, governance, security and conflict resolution, adding that the reason for the use of court in conflicts resolution was the absence of democratic governance of commonwealth and privileges.

Onoja added that as Nigerians continue to struggle for a functional government that would guarantee them food security, health security, community security, economic security, political security, environmental security and personal security, it was important for the relevant state institutions to begin to function effectively.

“The processes of voting and declaration of the winners of election during the 2023 general elections have come and gone, but there are election conflicts still before the courts, “ Onoja said.

The retired major general who said that the 2023 general election was a defining moment for Nigeria in view of the several threats to peace, security, and development that confronting the nation on the eve of the election, commended President Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar of PDP and Peter Obi of Labour Party for toing the path of peace.

He also called on the judiciary to be firm and diligently discharge their duties on litigations before them based on evidence to enhance citizens’ trust in government and also win their supports to collectively fight common enemies of the country.

“We are confident that the judiciary this time around will discharge its duty creditably well in resolving all electoral conflicts.

“This will build citizens’ confidence in the electoral body, the electoral process, democratic institutions, democracy and the new administration that emerges from electoral process.

“The credibility of the conflict resolution process will also serve as covering force to all Nigerians to join government in the fight against threats to peace and security confronting the country, especially terrorism, insurgency, separatist agitation, militancy, banditry, and other criminal activities.

“It will also dampen the voices of division and strengthen the voices of National Cohesion.

Onoja expressed belief that President Bola Tinubu-led administration would sustain the good works it had started with economic reforms by initiating an open and transparent palliative regime to cushion the negative fallout on citizens.

Also speaking, the ICRPC Director-General, Prof. Andrew Zamani, said that as a professional group and major stakeholders in the Nigeria Project, the commission believed it must interrogate electoral processes in Nigeria since independence.

Zamani said the interrogation was with the view to identifying the election best practices and flaws, to strengthen the country’s democracy.

“Election processes reveal our collective attitudes towards power, justice and equity.

“In this regard, it is incumbent on the Conference to extend its search light beyond elections managed by INEC and Independent State Electoral Commission to party governance and democracy.

“It is important to interrogate the influences of patriarchy, godfatherism, money and filial bigotry on the party governance and leadership recruitment process in the country.

“It will not be too much to examine the role of the judiciary and extrajudicial factors in the resolution of conflicts arising from contentious election results.

“In doing our discoveries will not unrelated to the general state of the rule- of- law in Nigeria.”

Zamani said that the growth of Nigeria as an economic power house in Africa was dependent on having strong institutions capable of ensuring an electoral process that works

“Our electoral process must be transparent and reflect the choice of the people as this assures them that their votes count and it guarantees the legitimization of the government that is formed from such elections,” Zamani said.

In his remarks, the ICRPC Registrar-General, Dr Abdulwaheed Odewale described the conference as a vibrant platform for diverse voices towards a more peaceful and democratic society where the ballot prevails over the bullet.

Odewale said that the knowledge shared and experiences exchanged during the conference would undoubtedly shape the policies and practices that would guide the future of Nigeria.

“We have delved into the complexities of our electoral process, recognizing the pivotal role it is meant to play in upholding democracy and ensuring the collective will of the people.

“Through comprehensive discussions on security challenges, our understanding is deepened on the vital need for a safe and stable environment that encourages citizens’ participation, “ he said.

Odewale urged participants of the conference to carry the spirit of unity, resilience, and determination, as well applied knowledge gained at the event to be catalysts for positive change and better approaches to elections in Nigeria.

“Our collective responsibility lies in upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and non-violence, ensuring that our democracy thrives and flourishes.

“ I am confident that the insights gleaned from this conference will reverberate across our nation, inspiring us all to actively contribute to the peaceful coexistence and progress of our beloved Nigeria.

“Together, we can build a future where the ballot box triumphs over the bullet, where every voice is heard, and where conflict gives way to conciliation, “ he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that some new members were inducted as fellowe of the ICRCP. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Source: News Agency of Nigeria