A+ A-

US, UK suspect "political interference" in Nigeria election

WASHINGTON, March 30 (KUNA) -- The governments of US and UK indicated Monday that they suspect a "political interference" during the vote tallying phase of Nigeria's election.
In a joint statement, US Secretary of State John Kerry and his British counterpart Philip Hammond said they have seen "disturbing indications that the collation process, where the votes are finally counted, may be subject to deliberate political interference." The two leaders added that "this would contravene the letter and spirit of the Abuja Accord, to which both major parties committed themselves." They also noted that they have seen no evidence of systemic manipulation of the process.
"The Nigerian people have shown a commendable determination to register their vote and choose their leaders," Kerry and Hammond said.
The US and UK officials noted that they "would be very concerned by any attempts to undermine the independence of the Electoral Commission (INEC), or its Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega; or in any way distort the expressed will of the Nigerian people." Early results are expected to be announced late Monday.
The 57 year-old President Goodluck Jonathan is facing off against 72year-old Muhammadu Buhari, who led Nigeria in the early 1980's following a military coup. (end) ys.ma