Background of the study
Interpreting in political contexts is a critical component of democratic engagement, particularly in multilingual societies such as Enugu where Igbo is a dominant language. The effectiveness of political discourse often hinges on the interpreter’s ability to accurately render complex political terminologies, cultural nuances, and rhetorical strategies in real time. In recent years, challenges in interpretation—ranging from lexical ambiguities to the lack of context-specific training—have raised concerns regarding the clarity and credibility of political messages conveyed during debates, speeches, and public forums (Okafor, 2023). These challenges are exacerbated by the rapid pace of political exchanges, which demands swift decision-making and often leaves interpreters grappling with incomplete contextual information (Umeh, 2024). Additionally, socio-political factors such as ideological bias and varying levels of linguistic proficiency further complicate the interpretive process. As political discourse shapes public opinion and policy direction, any misinterpretation can have significant repercussions on democratic participation. This study examines the multifaceted interpreting challenges encountered in Igbo political discourse and evaluates their impact on message fidelity and public trust. By drawing on interviews with professional interpreters, analyses of recorded political events, and policy reviews, the research aims to identify specific barriers and propose targeted training and resource development to enhance interpretation quality (Nwankwo, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite the growing importance of accurate interpretation in political settings, significant challenges remain in ensuring reliable communication during Igbo political discourse in Enugu. Frequent errors in translating technical political terminology and cultural idioms have led to distortions in public messaging, undermining the credibility of political actors (Okafor, 2023). Additionally, interpreters often face time pressure and inadequate preparatory support, which hampers their ability to deliver contextually appropriate translations (Umeh, 2024). These issues are compounded by the lack of standardized training programs and continuous professional development, resulting in inconsistent interpretation quality. Consequently, miscommunications may distort public perceptions and influence electoral outcomes, highlighting the urgent need to address these challenges through improved interpreter training and policy oversight (Nwankwo, 2023).
Objectives of the study:
Research questions:
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it highlights the critical role of interpretation in shaping political discourse in multilingual settings. The findings will inform policymakers, interpreter training institutions, and political organizations on effective strategies to mitigate interpretation challenges. By addressing these issues, the research aims to improve the accuracy of political communication, thus strengthening democratic participation and public trust in political processes (Okafor, 2023; Umeh, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to examining interpreting challenges in Igbo political discourse within Enugu. It focuses solely on formal political events and does not address other types of discourse or languages.
Definitions of terms:
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