The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Rafsanjani is in the US to attend the inauguration of the President-elect, Joe Biden.
In a statement made available to ASHENEWS from the US, Rafsanjani called on African leaders to emulate the United States in building strong and independent institutions that could checkmate the excesses of public office holders.
He noted with disdain, the invasion of the Capitol Hill by supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump.
“It is necessary to note that the US Capitol invasion by Trump supporters led to his impeachment by members of the US House of Representatives who cited incitement of insurrection as the reason for his second impeachment.
“Despite the fact that Trump is the sitting president of America, he could not manipulate the electoral process. He could not also ask the legislature, judiciary, security or any government institutions to do otherwise.
“This can only happen in a functional society where institutions are strong and independent and not just mere rubber stamp,” he stated.
While calling for harmonious relationship between all arms of government for the overall benefit of Nigerians, he however said it was pertinent for the legislature to checkmate the excesses of other arms of government.
Rafsanjani congratulated Biden and Vice President Kamala Harrris on their inauguration, urging them to uphold the rule of law and respect for international agreements and treaties.
“President Joe Biden must restore confidence in the role of America as the largest economy in the world which has a very significant responsibility for the peace, security, stability and progress of the world,” he stated.
The CISLAC boss who also doubles as chairman Board of Amnesty International Nigeria, called on Biden to respect human rights and fight corruption in, not only America but also the world at large.
He noted that the new American leader must build on existing protocols in keeping people safe and healthy from the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic as well as work to advance peace and inclusion, economic prosperity, and climate action around the world.
Rafsanjani also congratulated the American people for a vibrant exercise of democracy in their country’s elections, while looking forward to strengthening African-American relations.
He observed that the strategic alliance is essential pillar for international cooperation needed to address the dramatic challenges facing the world today.
Similarly, Rafsanjani noted that the instance of what happened in Uganda, where the opposition was constantly in the eye of state sponsored oppression, depicted why there is a need for stronger institutions in Africa and respect for values on the continent.
He stated that if there were strong institutions, such incidents would not have occured in the manner it did.
Mr Rafsanjani also restated CISLAC’s commitment to help reposition Nigeria to benefit in terms of the economy, size, governance, fighting insurgency and corruption.
