According to Punch, As the formation of the next federal administration draws near, a recent development has sparked intense discussions regarding religious representation in President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu's cabinet. Some Muslims have appealed to Tinubu, urging him to allocate more ministerial appointments to members of their faith compared to their Christian counterparts. This call for increased Muslim representation in Muslim-majority states has raised important questions about religious balance and inclusivity in the upcoming administration. Let's delve into the details of this lobbying effort and its implications.
Demand for Equitable Representation:
The Muslim community, specifically under the aegis of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has put forth a request for a significant increase in ministerial appointments for Muslims in Muslim-majority states. They propose that in each of the six geopolitical zones, Muslims should have four ministers, while Christians should have two. This demand is based on the belief that Muslims in these regions have been historically marginalized in political appointments, despite being the majority.
Highlighting Past Marginalization:
MURIC cites instances of perceived marginalization in the past, where Muslim-majority regions were governed by Christian leaders who allegedly favored their religious communities. They argue that this policy created an unfair political landscape, hindering Muslims' participation in governance and reinforcing religious disparities. By bringing attention to past exclusions, MURIC seeks to rectify historical imbalances and promote greater inclusivity in the Tinubu administration.
Balancing Competence and Representation:
While advocating for increased Muslim representation, MURIC emphasizes that competence should not be compromised. They acknowledge the need for qualified individuals to occupy ministerial positions, and assert that there are highly capable Muslims across various fields who deserve recognition and opportunities to serve. By focusing on merit alongside religious representation, MURIC aims to ensure a balance between inclusive governance and effective administration.
The Role of Governor El-Rufai:
In a separate statement, MURIC also highlights the significant role played by Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State in securing the victory of the Muslim-Muslim ticket during the APC presidential primary. They express the belief that El-Rufai's efforts warrant a top position in the Tinubu administration, as a gesture of gratitude and to further solidify support from the North. Initially using the term "juicy post," MURIC later retracts the phrase, replacing it with "top post" and issuing an apology for any offense caused.
Aiming for Political Integration:
Overall, MURIC calls for a departure from the political marginalization of Muslims and urges the inclusion and integration of Muslim citizens across all geopolitical zones. They emphasize the importance of fair representation, particularly in Muslim-majority states, without compromising the pursuit of excellence and competence. The lobby seeks to ensure that all regions, regardless of religious composition, have a diverse and inclusive cabinet that reflects the multifaceted nature of Nigerian society.
Conclusion:
The plea for increased Muslim representation in President-elect Tinubu's cabinet highlights the ongoing discussion on religious balance and inclusivity in Nigerian politics. As the nation prepares for a new administration, it is crucial to address historical disparities and promote a fair and diverse representation of different religious communities. The final composition of the cabinet will not only shape the policies and governance of the country but also serve as a reflection of Nigeria's commitment to inclusivity and equal representation in its leadership.
Content created and supplied by: PoliticsNews1 (via Opera News )
COMMENTS