By Chuks Uzochukwu
Leaders of thoughts and stakeholders in Imo State under aegis of "Imo Social Contract Group" have affirmed their commitment in ensuring that Imo electorate elect in the forthcoming state governorship election credible candidate, capable of delivering dividends of democracy for overall good of the people.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the group held at Villa Garden Hotel, Owerri, on Saturday, the convener, Dr. Fabian Ihekweme said the group was poised to also ensure that whosoever that would be elected have genuine interest of the masses at heart.
Ihekweme, an international trained political scientist stated that ISCG would enter into a social contract with the candidate, stressing that it would enable the group hold the candidate accountable to the people while in office.
According to the former Commissioner in the state, the primary aim of ISCG is, "to chart a new path to progress and take ownership of government and its administration through a responsive leadership approach and mass mobilization."
He further availed that the social contract which contains the basic needs of the citizens from the government as well as the expectations of the government from the citizens, "seeks to improve relationships and trust between the government and the people."
Ihekweme, also known as Omu noted that the coming election will not be business as usual as the Imo people want to own the government, adding that "when a governor comes through the people, he will be under a obligation to deliver a dividend of democracy and good governance to the people."
He said, "In the past, governments had behaved recklessly because they feel they didn't emerge through the people. But this time, when they go into a social contract with the people, they will be under a moral obligation to work for the interest of the people when they get into office."
"This group and its meetings is not for any particular political party. But it's a gathering of like minds who are ready to make sure the government works for the masses."
The meeting had presence of credible and prominent political and religious leaders, technocrats, captain of industries, opinion moulders among other critical stakeholders of the state.
