III 109th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 575 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 20, 2006 Mr. Feingold (for himself and Mr. Hagel) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Supporting the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission of the Government of Nigeria, political parties, civil society, and religious organizations to facilitate the first democratic transition of Nigeria from 1 civilian government to another in the general elections to be held in April 2007.

Whereas the United States maintains strong and friendly relations with Nigeria and values the leadership role that the United States plays throughout the continent of Africa, particularly in the establishment of the New Partnership for African Development and the African Union; Whereas Nigeria is an important strategic partner with the United States in combating terrorism, promoting regional stability, and improving energy security; Whereas Nigeria is a leading contributor to global peacekeeping efforts, including operations in Lebanon, Yugoslavia, Kuwait, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Rwanda, and Sudan; Whereas past corruption and poor governance have resulted in weak political institutions, crumbling infrastructure, a feeble economy, and an impoverished population; Whereas political aspirants and the democratic process of Nigeria are being threatened by increasing politically-motivated violence, including the assassination of 3 gubernatorial candidates in different states during the previous 2 months; and Whereas the Chairperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission has— (1)announced that governorship and state assembly elections will be held on April 14, 2007; (2)stated that votes for the president and national assembly will take place on April 21, 2007; and (3)vowed to organize free and fair elections to facilitate a smooth democratic transition: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)recognizes the importance of Nigeria as a strategic partner and long-time friend of the United States; (2)acknowledges the rising prominence of Nigeria as a leader and role model throughout the region and continent; (3)commends the decision of the National Assembly of Nigeria to reject an amendment to the constitution that would have allowed for a third presidential term; (4)encourages the Government of Nigeria and the Independent National Electoral Commission to demonstrate a commitment to successful democratic elections by— (A)developing an aggressive plan for voter registration and education; (B)addressing charges of past or intended corruption in a transparent manner; and (C)conducting objective and unbiased recruitment and training of election officials; (5)urges the Government of Nigeria to respect the freedoms of association and assembly, including the right of candidates, members of political parties, and others— (A)to freely assemble; (B)to organize and conduct public events; and (C)to exercise those and other rights in a manner free from intimidation or harassment; (6)urges a robust effort by the law enforcement and judicial officials of Nigeria to enforce the rule of law, particularly by— (A)preventing and investigating politically-motivated violence; and (B)prosecuting those suspected of such acts; (7)urges— (A)President Bush to ensure that the United States supports the Government of Nigeria in that regard; and (B)the Government of Nigeria to actively seek the support of the international community for democratic, free, and fair elections in April 2007; and (8)expresses the support of the United States for coordinated efforts by the Government of Nigeria and the Independent National Electoral Commission to work with political parties, civil society, religious organizations, and other entities to organize a peaceful political transition based on free and fair elections in April 2007 to further consolidate the democracy of Nigeria.