Redaction Africa Links 24 with Legit.ng
Published on 2024-03-05 13:19:04
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has recently made a significant decision by appointing the 16 dismissed Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers from the state assembly as liaison officers for their respective constituencies. These lawmakers lost their positions in November 2023 following a ruling by the Appellate Court that the PDP could not endorse candidates for an election.
The lawmakers, who were embroiled in a legal battle to reclaim their seats, were designated as liaison officers by Governor Mutfwang to enhance rural participation and promote holistic development across the state. This development came after the Supreme Court overturned a similar judgment against the governor, fueling the lawmakers’ determination to seek reinstatement.
Despite their new appointments, the PDP lawmakers remain resolute in their pursuit of legal recourse to overturn the court’s decision. Timothy Dantong, the representative for the Riyom constituency and one of the affected legislators, emphasized their commitment to continuing the legal battle. He clarified that the recent judgment from the Appellate Court was misinterpreted, stating that their lawyer did not present the case due to procedural issues.
Dantong further explained that there was an application for an extension of time, and the issue of reviewing their case was not even addressed during the court proceedings. The judges’ decision to impose fines on the lawmakers for allegedly wasting their time only added to the controversy surrounding the case.
Contrary to reports circulating about the case being dismissed, Dantong clarified that the case was not heard, let alone dismissed. This clarification sheds light on the ongoing legal challenges faced by the PDP lawmakers in their quest for reinstatement in the state assembly.
Meanwhile, the Plateau state legislative arm is facing political turmoil as Speaker Gabriel Dewan refuses to inaugurate 16 APC lawmakers into the assembly. The APC has criticized Dewan for his stance, accusing him of obstructing the induction process. However, Dewan maintains that the situation is straightforward and devoid of the complexities alleged by the APC.
The political landscape in Plateau State remains tense as various parties navigate legal battles and power struggles within the state assembly. Governor Mutfwang’s decision to appoint the dismissed PDP lawmakers as liaison officers adds another dimension to the ongoing political dynamics in the state.
In conclusion, the developments in Plateau State underscore the intricate interplay between legal battles, political maneuvering, and governance in the state assembly. The appointment of the dismissed PDP lawmakers as liaison officers reflects Governor Mutfwang’s efforts to address rural engagement and promote development in the state. As the legal battle continues, the political landscape in Plateau State remains fluid, with implications for governance and representation in the state assembly.
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