Yala LGA: Time to Prioritize Competence Over Zoning by Abraham Kadiri

The Need to Shift Focus from Zoning to Leadership Competence in Yala LGA Forthcoming Election

As the local government elections draw nearer, the focus in Yala Local Government will soon shift from the long-standing zoning debates to a more critical issue: who has the capacity to win and effectively govern. While zoning has historically been an important mechanism to ensure equity and fair representation across political blocs, it should not overshadow the more pressing need for leadership competence. In this election, it is time to assess candidates based on their ability to deliver real development and bring government closer to the people.

Electability is a key factor for any candidate. It is not just about securing a party nomination or benefiting from zoning arrangements; a candidate must also resonate with the electorate. To win, a leader needs broad grassroots support that cuts across the various segments of Yala society. In Ukelle, for example, the voter dynamics between North and South are critical. North Ukelle, with its four wards—especially Wanihem, which holds more voters than all of South Ukelle—plays a decisive role. A serious candidate must have a strategy that appeals to both regions, ensuring that the voters feel their interests will be represented.

Beyond electability, leadership competence is paramount. Winning the election is just the beginning; the true challenge lies in governing effectively. The next leader of Yala Local Government must have a solid track record in administration, resource management, and public service delivery. Such person should have a clear plan to address issues such as infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and youth engagement. Experience and skill set in areas like project management, financial oversight, and human resource management will be crucial in determining their success in office.

Moreover, bringing government closer to the people should be a top priority for the next administration in Yala L.G.A. This requires a decentralized approach to governance, where services are easily accessible and citizens are actively involved in decision-making processes. The new council leader must build strong relationships with traditional institutions, religious bodies, youths and community leaders, ensuring that every ward benefits from government programs. In this regard, leadership should be inclusive and transparent, reaching even the most remote areas of Yala.

Ukelle is one entity, and the next leader should reflect this unity in Leadership style. The emphasis should no longer be on north or south producing the chairman but on who has the vision and capacity to foster unity and drive development across the entire local government. Zoning has its place, but competence, inclusiveness, and a genuine commitment to progress should be the deciding factors in this election.

As the political narrative moves from zoning to electability and governance, the APC leaders in Yala Local Government must focus on choosing a leader who can rise above parochial interests and deliver meaningful change. This election offers an opportunity to elect a candidate who can unite the people, bring government closer to the communities, and chart a course for sustainable development. The choice of leadership should not just reflect geographical balance but also the readiness to tackle the challenges facing Yala today and in the future.

Abraham Kadiri
5/10/2024