Trust in election results is the bedrock of any functioning democracy. Yet, around the world, this trust is frequently eroded by disputes and allegations of foul play. According to Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist Femi Aborisade, the path to credible polls is clear, though not always easy. It hinges on two essential, interconnected pillars: genuine political will and truly independent institutions.
The First Pillar: Political Will
Political will is more than just scheduling an election. It represents the authentic desire and commitment from those in power to conduct a process where the outcome is uncertain and fair. It's the decision to provide adequate funding, to refrain from using state resources for partisan gain, and, crucially, to accept a result that may not be favorable. Without this foundational commitment, the entire electoral framework is built on shaky ground.
The Second Pillar: Independent Institutions
Elections are administered by institutions: electoral commissions, courts to adjudicate disputes, and security agencies to protect the process. For credibility, these institutions must operate without fear or favor. Independence means hiring staff impartially, securing voting materials without bias, making rulings based on law and evidence, and announcing results transparently—even when inconvenient for the ruling party.
How the Pillars Work Together
Aborisade's framework is synergistic. Political will is the fuel that starts the engine of democracy. Independent institutions are the well-oiled machinery that must run free from tampering. If leaders lack the will, or actively pressure institutions, the gears jam. The machine fails, and public trust in the output—the election result—collapses.
The Global Relevance
This is not an abstract theory. From mature to emerging democracies, election controversies often stem from a failure in one or both of these areas. Accusations typically involve government pressure on an electoral body, influence over the judiciary, or the misuse of security forces. Aborisade's argument posits that preventing this interference is a conscious choice available to leaders.
The Path Forward
Building and safeguarding credible elections is an ongoing project. It requires constant vigilance from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand both political will and institutional independence. The credibility of the next election, anywhere, will be a direct test of these two principles in action.
