The Free and Fair Elections Network (FAFEN) released its report on the by-elections held on November 23, revealing a mixed picture of electoral conduct marked by improved arrangements, procedural gaps and low voter turnout.
FAFEN deployed 122 observers who monitored 373 polling stations in the constituencies. Although the report acknowledged that the elections took place in generally better conditions, it pointed to violations of the electoral campaign and gaps in the transparency of the results.
Voter turnout remained extremely low across the board. Overall turnout was just 23%, with most precincts recording less than 50% turnout. Only one constituency managed to cross the 50% participation threshold.
Read: By-elections a ‘one-sided’ affair, analysts say
On election day, FAFEN observers documented more than 465 political camps established near polling stations, raising questions about compliance with election guidelines. In 49% of polling stations, political parties were observed facilitating the arrival and departure of voters. Election materials were found at 16 polling stations, while arrangements for women, elderly and disabled voters were found to be uneven, indicating gaps in inclusive election management.
Although 93% of polling stations maintained peaceful and organized conditions, several procedural violations were documented. In some polling booths, voters whose ID cards had expired were turned away, while assistant agents pre-signed the ballot papers in 29% of the booths. 28% of stands reported pre-stamping incidents.
Learn more: The one-way vote
FAFEN observers were unable to enter two polling stations during the counting. Form 45, which contains the official results, was not provided to election officials at six polling stations and was not accessible to observers at 13 polling stations. Several polling stations also failed to provide Form 46 to election officials and election observers. In 43% of polling stations, signatures were not obtained from agents on the result form.
Despite documented irregularities, 97% of poll workers expressed satisfaction with the voting process, according to the report.
