Jonathan urges politicians to redefine democracy

President Goodluck Jonathan has enjoined politicians to help redefine the country’s democracy as vehicle for strengthening national unity and development rather than using same as a tool for ceaseless quarrelling and use of abusive language.
Jonathan spoke on Tuesday at Merit House, Abuja, during the public presentation and official launch of Kukah Centre, founded by prominent cleric and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah.
The Kukah Centre, which became active last year, was established to strengthen national debate, improve governance and encourage Nigerians to take an active role in the country’s leadership.
It also intends to actively promote conversations among Nigeria’s faith communities, as well as between leaders in faith and public policy.
Jonathan ?said: “?I believe that our democracy should be strengthened by robust debates, generation of innovative ideas and development, patriotism and progress in our country.?


“I, therefore, call on everyone, the political class, our ordinary citizens but even more importantly, the academic community to rise up to these challenges posed by this initiative.
“I think we are over defining our democracy today by quarrelling as if democracy is about competitors quarrelling just like motor park workers.?”
He further tasked politicians to use the opportunity of 2015 elections to renew their commitment ?to Nigeria’s unity.
His words: “As elections draw close, I call on all politicians to see this as another opportunity for us to renew our commitment to deepening our democracy and strengthening our bond of unity.” (Daily Independent)