News
Ahead of South Africa’s national elections this week, the Africa Liberal Network (ALN) has deployed a significant observer mission to monitor and protect the integrity of the electoral process. The ALN observer mission includes several ALN Vice Presidents and representatives from member parties across the continent. ALN President, Gilbert Noël Ouédraogo is leading the ALN observers in South Africa.
Cross-session of the ALN observers
Supported by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and the Danish Liberal Democracy Programme (DLDP), the ALN’s involvement underscores the critical role of international observers in upholding democratic standards. The presence of international observers like the ALN helps ensure that elections are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and credible. Election observation missions are vital as they enhance the transparency of the electoral process, promote voter confidence, and help prevent electoral fraud and violence. These missions provide impartial assessments that can inform improvements in future electoral processes.
The ALN delegation will observe the final days of political campaigning in South Africa, witnessing how parties engage with voters and present their platforms. They will explore electioneering in the digital age, focusing on the challenges of social media and fake news. The delegation will also learn about international standards and best practices for election observation. Their findings and assessments issued the day after the elections, will contribute to ensuring the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. Post-election activities will include a workshop on the implications of the Multi-Party Charter to the Democratic Alliance given interim election results.
ALN President Gilbert Noël Ouédraogo with the DA Leader John Steenhuisen and the ALN Secretary General Wendy Alexander
ALN President, Me Gilbert Noël Ouédraogo, while highlighting the significance of the ALN’s participation, remarked that:
“Our observer mission is crucial in ensuring that the electoral process in South Africa is conducted fairly and transparently. We are here to support democracy and the values it upholds. We wish the Democratic Alliance, our esteemed member party, the very best of success in these elections. Their success is a testament to the strength of liberal values in South Africa.”
The Democratic Alliance (DA), a prominent member of the ALN, has been a key player in South Africa’s political landscape. The DA has been actively campaigning across the country, advocating for policies that promise economic growth, improved public services, and good governance.
Democratic Alliance rally ahead of the South African elections with some ALN Observers
The ALN’s mission in South Africa is part of a broader effort to support liberal democracies across the African continent. By participating in election observation missions, the ALN promotes democratic principles and supports member parties in their quest to foster transparent and accountable governance.