Johannesburg - International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane officially launched the SADC election observer mission (SEOM) in Mauritius on Monday, her department said.
On December 10, Mauritius would hold its 10th democratic elections post-independence, she said in a speech prepared for delivery in Moka, Mauritius.
“As much as elections are becoming a regular institution in the broader context of promoting democracy, so too is election observation,” said Nkoana-Mashabane.
“The presence and deployment of SEOMs helps to enhance the credibility of the electoral process, and encourages the development of a culture of freedom of expression, association and fairness, which should be part and parcel of every election.”
The mission's task was to observe and consider the general conduct of the elections against the Southern African Development Community (SADC) principles for observing democratic elections.
“They will observe the participation of citizens in the political process, freedom of association and political tolerance,” she said.
The voting process would be held to the same standards as in Botswana, Mozambique and Namibia, where SEOMs were also launched this year.
“It is guided by our shared commitment to the principles and guidelines which member states have signed.
“May this election be a genuine indication of true citizen participation in the political process as the people of Mauritius make their decision on their future by electing leaders of their choice,” Nkoana-Mashabane said.
Sapa