By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA—Chairman of  the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Yakubu Mahmood, yesterday disclosed that the commission has received 32 fresh applications from groups wishing to be registered as political parties. INEC, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday said:  “The commission has been receiving applications from various associations for registration as political parties.

‘’So far, we have received 32 applications (and the number is rising). The applications are being processed. “The commission remains committed to the opening of the democratic space in line with the law and our guidelines.” He explained that the meeting was a forum for the commission to brief party leaders on developments in the management of the democratic system.

Yakubu also addressed the recent revelations of alleged involvement of INEC staff in the subversion of 2015 general elections through cash inducement. Said he: “INEC will also take further administrative action against staff found culpable in this dastardly conduct.”

‘’We will not hesitate to interdict staff where prima facie cases have been established against them by EFCC and immediately terminate the appointments of those indicted.”

According to him, despite the severe constraints on the commission, with regard to the prosecution of election offenders, as exemplified by the recently held bye-election in Minjibir Constituency in Kano State, “INEC legal team and the Police have successfully secured the conviction of 42 suspects.