The Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Coalition on Elections (The Gambia) is pleased to inform the general public that it is once again participating in the forthcoming Local Government Elections as monitors and observers.
 
According to a press release issued yesterday, the Coalition, which is coordinated by the West Africa Network for Peace building (WANEP) Gambia, was formed in 2006 purposely to facilitate the direct participation of Gambians in our own elections as well as to contribute to expanding the democratic space in the country for sustainable development. More than 20 local CSOs belong to the Coalition which is also cordially working with the Independent Electoral Commission and the National Council Civic Education.
 
In the previous Presidential and National Assembly elections, the Coalition fielded more than 100 observers around the country following which it produced a report on the elections which was shared with IEC and other stakeholders. In the forthcoming elections, the Coalition will begin training of monitors and observers from Tuesday 8th January 2008 in Kanifing, Brikama, Pakalinding and Bansang.
 
The purpose of the training is to equip monitors and observers with knowledge and skills in campaign monitoring and election observation, and to uphold the principles of impartiality, objectivity and neutrality. The participation of the Coalition in public elections in The Gambia augurs well for the development of democracy and popular participation in The Gambia. Until the emergence of the Coalition, observers of elections in the country were conducted by foreign agencies, governments and organizations.
 
While this may prove positive, it is however in the best interest of the country that its citizens actively participate in elections. This will help to consolidate the gains already registered by the country, and also ensure the active participation of the general populace in such a major national event as elections. Election monitoring and observation is a major phenomenon of all modern elections around the world.

The Coalition wishes to call on Gambians to come out massively to vote in the elections as they determine the future and destiny of our country. Elections are one of the major indicators of democracy and a peaceful way of identifying the managers of the resources and affairs of society. The Coalition also calls on all the candidates and parties to conduct their campaigns and the entire election process in peace and calm.

The participation of the Coalition has been facilitated by support from the UNDP Gambia Office, and the Coalition wishes to register its appreciation to them.

The Coalition is also expressing gratitude to the IEC and NCCE for their support since the inception and they pledge their commitment and support to these two very important national institutions for free and fair elections and an informed citizenry.