The supervisor of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) for the Gôh-Djiboua district, Me Yapobi Ketty Yolande, has called on members of Gagnoa’s Local Electoral Commissions (CEL) to fully embrace their responsibility in ensuring the smooth conduct of the upcoming presidential election.
“The stakes are high, and all eyes will be on you,” Ms. Yapobi stressed during the installation ceremony of four new CELs on Tuesday, July 22.
Addressing the Sub-Prefectural Electoral Commissions of Gagnoa and Ouragahio, as well as the Communal and Regional Electoral Commissions, she reminded commissioners that they serve as the first point of contact between the CEI and the population, making their role critical in guaranteeing a credible electoral process.
In total, eight CELs have been installed under Ms. Yapobi’s supervision, with three more scheduled for installation in Gagnoa on Thursday and five additional CELs in the Oumé department on Friday, July 25.
Ms. Yapobi underscored that effective oversight requires commissioners to possess a strong command of the legal and procedural framework governing elections. “Be able to respond effectively,” she urged, emphasising the need for immediate and accurate guidance when called upon by election officials.
The CEI supervisor also appealed to commissioners to demonstrate impartiality by stepping back from their political affiliations, despite being nominated by their respective parties.
“The parties are competitors, and if you too become competitors, nothing will work,” she warned, cautioning that political bias could jeopardise the commission’s credibility.
Describing the CELs as the foundation of the CEI, Ms. Yapobi urged members to act as neutral arbiters, prioritising the integrity of the electoral process.
“We have a sometimes thankless job, but it’s an honor to be chosen to work on behalf of the public service,” she concluded, calling on the newly installed commissioners to carry out their duties with vigilance, competence, and dedication ahead of the October 25 presidential vote.
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