INEC ADJUSTS TIMELINE FOR PARTY MEMBERSHIP REGISTERS AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTIONS

March 29, 2026March 29, 2026

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised aspects of its timetable for the 2027 general elections, extending the deadline for the submission of political parties’ registers of members.

The decision followed concerns raised by political parties during a meeting with the Commission on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, regarding the earlier timeline, which fixed submission between April 1 and April 21, 2026.

In response, INEC adjusted the schedule to align with the 21-day requirement stipulated under Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act 2026, ensuring consistency with dates set by political parties for their primaries.

Under the revised arrangement, political parties are now permitted to conduct their primaries within the approved window of April 23 to May 30, 2026.

INEC emphasised that parties must submit their membership registers at least 21 days before the date of their respective primaries. Consequently, the final deadline for submission has been extended to May 10, 2026, replacing the earlier April 21 deadline.

The Commission urged all political parties to strictly adhere to the updated timetable to facilitate a smooth and credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.