Francine Baron Joins Commonwealth Observer Group for Mozambique Elections

Francine Baron, former Foreign Minister of Dominica, is part of the Commonwealth Observer Group overseeing Mozambique’s general election scheduled for October 9, 2023. Led by Dr. Kenny Anthony, the group will observe all electoral processes from October 1-15, focusing on upholding democratic standards. The initiative emphasizes the Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting credible elections in member states.

Former Foreign Minister Francine Baron has been appointed as a member of the Commonwealth Observer Group, which will be tasked with overseeing the upcoming general election in Mozambique. The group, under the leadership of Dr. Kenny Anthony, the former Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, will arrive in Mozambique on October 1, 2023, and will remain until October 15, 2023. This mission aims to scrutinize the election processes, including the opening, voting, closing, counting, and management of results for the elections scheduled for October 9, which encompass presidential, national, and provincial positions. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, announced the formation of the observer group in London, expressing gratitude to the Mozambique National Election Commission for inviting such oversight. She emphasized the Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting democratic practices, stating, “Mozambique is a valued member of the Commonwealth family, and this election observation exercise is testament to our commitment to supporting them.” Dr. Anthony remarked on the honor of leading the mission, appreciating the diverse expertise of the eleven selected observers from various Commonwealth nations, encompassing election law, civil society, human rights, and media. The Commonwealth Secretariat outlined that upon arrival, the observers will engage with key stakeholders such as the election management body, political entities, civil society organizations, media representatives, and members of the diplomatic community. Furthermore, from October 7 onwards, the observers will distribute into smaller teams throughout the provinces to assess electoral preparations and engage with local stakeholders. On the election day, the group will oversee all electoral activities and subsequently release an interim statement regarding their preliminary findings on October 11, 2023. The mission has been mandated to evaluate the overall credibility of the electoral process and the adherence to Mozambique’s commitments to democratic standards, including relevant domestic legislation and international protocols. The appointed observation group features individuals from various nations: 1) Francine Baron from Dominica, 2) Pauline Welsh from Jamaica, 3) Charles Keter from Kenya, 4) Dr. Karabo Mokobocho-Mohlakoana from Lesotho, 5) Professor Danwood Chirwa from Malawi, 6) Beverly Joeman from Malaysia, 7) Zainab Bala from Nigeria, 8) ‘Ofa Guttenbeil-Likiliki from Tonga, 9) Alan Kasujja from Uganda, 10) Dr. Alex Vines from the United Kingdom, and 11) Muleta Kapatiso from Zambia. Historically, the Commonwealth has observed elections in Dominica, reaffirming its role in promoting credible democratic processes. The last Commonwealth Observer Mission in Dominica, following the December 2022 general election in which Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s Labour Party emerged victorious, concluded that the election represented the “collective will” of Dominican voters.

The Commonwealth Observer Group is an important initiative aimed at ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes in member countries. Mozambique, as a member of the Commonwealth, has invited this group to oversee its general election, thereby reinforcing its commitment to uphold democratic values. This election marks a significant moment for the country, as it involves elections for various governmental positions, including the presidency. The long history of Commonwealth election observations demonstrates a commitment to fostering electoral integrity and supporting member states in achieving democratic governance.

The participation of Francine Baron in the Commonwealth Observer Group highlights the commitment of the Commonwealth to ensuring a credible electoral process in Mozambique. The group’s diverse expertise and structured approach to observing the election processes aim to uphold the democratic principles that the Commonwealth advocates. Through this mission, the Commonwealth aims to strengthen democratic institutions in Mozambique and support the citizens’ fundamental right to participate in shaping their governance.

Original Source: dominicanewsonline.com