The National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced that it has received 267 election observers and is still welcoming more applicants. This was discussed during a press conference focused on the preparations for the upcoming campaign activities for the presidential and parliamentary elections.
The President of the National Electoral Commission, Oda Gasinzigwa, stated that the process of receiving and approving candidacies went smoothly and that the campaign activities should also proceed well.
While election preparations are ongoing, the Executive Secretary of the National Electoral Commission, Charles Munyaneza, announced that 267 observers have been approved.
He indicated that there are more applicants awaiting approval and emphasized that among those approved, 61 are from other countries and international organizations.
He said, “Those are the ones we have approved so far, but there are many more who have applied. Everything follows laws and regulations. The ones I mentioned are those approved as of the evening of June 19, 2024, and we see that many tend to apply as the elections approach.”
He pointed out that although the number is still small, there is no need for concern because there are many applicants, and they will be approved based on legal requirements.
He added, “Whether the number is small or large, the important thing is the NEC’s commitment to transparency in its activities for anyone who wants to observe.”
He noted that candidates can also have their representatives in the polling stations to ensure the smooth running of the process.
He highlighted that the process of receiving observers for the elections scheduled for July 2024 has utilized technological methods for both application and approval.
“Previously, international observers had to come to the National Electoral Commission to fill out papers, and we would then approve or disapprove them. But now, that is no longer necessary. Observers from the Commonwealth, African Union, and other places do not need to come here. We have implemented a technological system allowing people to apply and be approved electronically.”
The National Electoral Commission indicates that they expect to receive many observers, both domestic and international.
iriba.news@gmail.com
