The West African Network for Peacebuilding (Wanep) Gambia, has concluded that the 25th February 2007 president elections in Senegal were free, fair and transparent.

According to the preliminary report issued by Wanep, the observations in a number of polling stations, and the assessment of the general environment and the media reports monitored, Wanep Gambia commended the people of Senegal for exercising their civic duties with much patriotism and peace. Wanep, which witnessed the opening of the polling station at Liberte 6, Medina and Plateau, pointed out that the election results reflected the true wish of the people.

In their report, then urged the Senegalese and leaders of the political parties to continue to nurture a solid democratic culture and human rights in order to ensure a sustainable peace and development nation.

Concerns

Meanwhile, the organisation expressed concern about the late start of the elections and the late issuing of voters card. This was found to be grossly unfair and undemocratic as it denied citizens the right and ability to exercise their civic responsibilities, Wanep indicated.

According to Wanep, the voting process was found to be slow and this was attributed to the fact that there were many candidates and the process of voting was complex.

Recommendations

Wanep The Gambia therefore recommended for proper elections arrangements to “ensure that polling starts on time during elections; secondly, we highly recommend that in future, voters should be provided voting cards on time to enable them to cast their ballot. It is utterly unfair and a violation of the rights of citizens to deny them from determining their destiny by not voting on account of non-availability of voting cards; and we also recommend that the electoral office, CENA, should provide a uniform outfit for all observers to make them stand out distinctly. This outfit should include a cap, T-shirt and badges. This will help to facilitate their observation and easily obtain the cooperation of the voters and polling staff”