EU Observers Note Irregularities in Mozambique Vote Counting
EU Observers Note Irregularities in Mozambique Vote Counting
The Facts
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the EU election observation mission to Mozambique flagged irregularities during vote counting and the "unjustified alteration" of results at polling station and district level.
EU observers added that they have been barred from observing tabulation processes in some districts and provinces, and at the national level. Earlier, they reported witnessing ballot box stuffing in six provinces.EU observers added that they have been barred from observing tabulation processes in some districts and provinces and at the national level. Earlier, they reported witnessing ballot box stuffing in six provinces.
The Spin
The EU is currently in a difficult position with regard to Mozambique — and that may affect the credibility of its future election observation missions. Despite EU observers tending to allege rigging only in most blatant cases, a strong message is unlikely, though, as defense and security deals were signed earlier this year.
Both EU and local observers agree that the Oct. 9 election has been rigged. Now, it's about time for regional actors such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community to take action to prevent Mozambique's democracy from collapsing altogether.