THE 'FOSIECON' CONFERENCE, A CALL TO STRENGTH GRASSROOT DEMOCRACY. By Justin Jattim Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, has seen the start of the 13th Forum of State Independent Electoral Commission (FOSIECON) National Delegates Conference. The conference brings together electoral stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on strengthening grassroots democracy and electoral reforms. FOSIECON Chairman Chief Barrister Jossy Chibundu outlined the difficulties SIECs face, such as a lack of funding independence, political meddling, administrative limitations, and public misperception. Despite these problems, a lot of SIECs have done a great job carrying out their mandates. As a forum for discussion and change, the chairman underlined the importance of this conference. Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, welcomed guests and emphasized the state's natural beauty, safety, and friendliness. He called for integrity, sincerity, and a renewed dedication to res...