Muluzi to lead Nigeria C’Wealth observer team

The Commonwealth Secretariat has appointed former president BakiliMuluzi to lead an 11-member observer team during Nigeria’s elections this February.

Nigeria will on February 14 2014 go to its fifth election since the end of military rule in 1999 to elect president, members of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Muluzi, while confirming his appointment and acceptance in an interview on Monday, said he raised security concerns for his team.

However, he said the Commonwealth Secretariat has assured his team of a comprehensive security plan, including a provision of police escort.

Nigeria is experiencing security challenges, including a well-publicised insurgency in the North-East by the infamous Boko Haram militants who have denounced democracy and are fighting to impose their strict version of Shariah law.

Thousands of people have been killed by this Islamist terror group founded in 2002.

Muluzi, whose team will be based in Abuja, said as matter of courtesy, he informed President Peter Mutharika of his appointment and the President has congratulated and wished him well.

Muluzi’s team set to assemble in Abuja on February 7, includes members from Australia, Ghana, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, South Africa, Uganda and from diverse fields.

Incumbent Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan will be seeking a second and final term.