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Momodou
Denmark
11771 Posts |
 Posted - 30 Jan 2007 : 14:12:07
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CSO COALITION ON ELECTIONS
“Militants and supporters of a certain political party entered polling stations in various parts of the country in their party gears, in some cases with campaign vehicles,” the preliminary report of the coalition of civil society organisations on the National Assembly Elections states.
The coalition which has a membership of 20 organisations, deployed election observers throughout the country during the National Assembly Elections.
According to the report, in certain polling stations, a chaotic atmosphere between the presiding officer and the polling officers existed.
“It appears polling officers were not adequately trained,” the report states.
The coalition is of the conclusion that there is need for a national debate on the issue of low voter turn out as witnessed in recent elections, which in their opinion (coalition) does not augur well for the country’s democracy.
“Democracy can only be meaningful if there is informed popular participation in national affairs. Gambians have to be given the reasons and benefits as to why they should vote, if we are going to ensure good and inclusive governance and development. In this regard, the CSO Coalition suggests, in an attempt to increase voter turn out, that a study be undertaken to find out why citizens are not coming out to vote,” the report indicates.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 011/2007, 29-30 January, 2006
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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