PDP faces internal turmoil over candidate imposition ahead of LG elections
By Jeleel Olawale
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State is grappling with intense internal strife as accusations of candidate imposition mar preparations for the upcoming Local Government elections.
Party leaders face allegations of circumventing democratic processes, prompting calls for intervention from top officials.
The controversy centres around claims that certain leaders are unilaterally selecting candidates for councilorship and chairmanship positions across the state’s 332 wards.
This has led to a formal complaint addressed to Governor Ademola Adeleke, urging him to intervene and halt what they describe as a subversion of democratic principles.
“This action would drag the party into political waterloo. The clandestine plan of these egocentric party leaders has been uncovered,” read the complaint. It identified local governments such as Ife-East, Orolu, Ejigbo, Osogbo, Irepodun, and Ayedade as hotspots for alleged imposition.
In response, the state party chairman, Hon. Sunday Bisi, vehemently denied the allegations. “PDP is a party that imbibes the principles of democracy. A party that obeys the constitution and follows the dictates of the rule of law. The purported rumour of imposition is not true,” he asserted.
Bisi promised a transparent primary process, emphasising that all aspirants would have an equal opportunity.
Despite these assurances, some aspirants remain wary. An anonymous source within the party revealed that some leaders in various local governments are indeed imposing candidates to ensure uncontested victories in the primaries.
The tension within the party comes as the Osun State Independent Election Commission prepares for elections in February 2024.
Concerns about the impact of these internal conflicts on the party’s prospects have been raised, especially with potential amendments to the electoral laws.
A party leader, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the press, acknowledged the grievances.
“The grievances of the aggrieved party members are noted. The issues, though may not be true, but the party is going to look into it,” he stated.
As the PDP approaches its primary elections, the urgent need for resolution is evident.
The party’s leadership must address these disputes to prevent further fragmentation and ensure a fair and democratic process.
