Westminster Foundation for Democracy deploys experts for Gambia's presidential election
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - UK-Based Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) has deployed election experts to observe the forthcoming presidential election in the Gambia.
WFD said in a statement made available to PANA on Wednesday that a thematic election expert observation mission (TEEOM) for Gambia’s 4 December 2021 election began on 1 November.
The mission focuses on the rights and opportunities of women, youth, persons with disabilities and other underrepresented groups to participate in the electoral process. It will also consider media freedom and media and social media coverage of the election.
The WFD mission, which follows an invitation from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), comprises three international experts supported by a team of national experts and media monitors. It will be conducted in-country as well as remotely, the statement said.
WFD’s Chief Executive, Anthony Smith, said: “Elections are a core process within a democracy. It is fundamental that everyone has the right and opportunity to have a say about the future of their country through elections.
“The participation of women and other underrepresented groups such as young people or people with disabilities is a major challenge in elections everywhere, not only in The Gambia. The integrity of elections is also partly shaped by the media and social media landscape they take place in. Understanding this landscape is essential.
“Providing an electoral analysis through this lens will enable the UK to provide a targeted contribution to support The Gambia in its democratic development.”
The mission will present its preliminary findings after the election and a final report containing recommendations after the conclusion of the entire electoral process will be published in 2022.
-0- PANA MSS/MA 3Nov2021
