SADC Launches Electoral Observation Mission in Madagascar Led by Brig. General Godfrey Miyanda
His Excellency Brig. General Godfrey Miyanda, former Vice President of the Republic of Zambia and Head of the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM), officially inaugurated the mission in Antananarivo, Madagascar, on November 12th, 2023.
The launch marked a significant step in overseeing the First Round of the Presidential Elections in the Republic of Madagascar.
SADC, in line with the Revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections (2021), conducts election observations in its Member States.
All SADC Member States have pledged their commitment to implementing these principles, providing an objective and scientific methodology for the observation of elections.
The goal is to enhance best electoral practices and address any shortcomings, thereby contributing to the consolidation of democracy in the region.
These principles are aligned with key instruments of the African Union (AU), including the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance of 2007, as well as relevant conventions of the United Nations (UN).
The First Round of the Presidential Elections in the Republic of Madagascar is scheduled for November 16th, 2023, with thirteen candidates vying for the position of President.
The SEOM, under the leadership of Brig. General Miyanda, will closely monitor the electoral process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic principles.
The launch event included a comprehensive statement outlining the mission’s objectives and its commitment to fostering democratic values.
Brig. General Miyanda emphasized the importance of the SEOM in contributing to the consolidation of democracy in the region.
As the SEOM gears up for its crucial role in observing Madagascar’s electoral proceedings, the mission remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of electoral integrity and promoting democratic ideals in the SADC region.
This story has been adopted from the SADC, Botswana.
