The
West African Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) has conducted a two-day training
course for about 120 domestic election observers, ahead of the December 1st
2016 presidential election.
The
training activity, organized by the CSO-Coalition for elections, under the
leadership of WANEP and funded from the United Nations Development Programme,
UNDP, was held at the Gambia Pastoral Institute on Kairaba Avenue.
The
CSO-Coalition stated that its participation in the elections indicates a
growing realization and involvement of Gambians in the democratization process
of the country, and provides Gambians the unique opportunity to directly
participate in the observation of elections in a more organised and robust
manner.
As
part of the election monitoring and observation process for the 2016- 2018
cycle, the coalition has developed and validated 31 election monitoring
indicators to monitor, analyze and to mitigate any possible electoral violence
nationwide.
In
her speech, UNDP resident representative Mrs Ade Mamonyane Lekoetje expressed
delight to be part of the opening ceremony of the training course for Domestic
Election Observers, organized by the CSO-Coalition for Elections, under the
leadership of WANEP.
“The
UNDP has adopted a partnership approach under this project to support the
2016-2018 electoral process. We are supporting civic education, focusing
especially on first-time voters, effective participation of women; voter
education and training of polling staff; training on effective media coverage
and responsible journalism; and inclusive dialogue on electoral issues.
“We
are particularly proud to be supporting the CSO-Coalition on Elections, a key
stakeholder of these elections. I take this opportunity to thank you for
participating in meetings we have invited you to. I am pleased that we could
support you for the monitoring and observation of these elections.”
Mrs
Lekeotje, who said the theme of the training course - Civil Society Actors
Contributing to National Development” is
very appropriate and insightful, stated that peaceful and credible elections
are critical elements of democratic societies, and are good for ensuring
economic development.
“Development
also goes hand in hand with respect for human rights, peace and security,” she
said, adding that every country needs civil society organisations, because they
ensure that citizens get involved in positive and constructive ways to benefit
their communities, regions and countries.
By
training and sending electoral observers in the field, the CSO-Coalition on
Elections is performing its responsibility, and contributing directly to
increasing the transparency of the electoral process and, therefore, to the
long-term development and prosperity of The Gambia and its people, she further
stated.
