The European Union has said that about 38 of its election observers from the European Union are due in the country on December 4, a day Gambians will go to the polls to elect new president.
At least 16 observers from the Union have been so far sent across the country ahead of the December election to help the Independent Electoral Commission in its election process.
“On Election Day, an additional 38 short – term observers will be reinforced the EU observation mission which will have around 70 observers to analyse on the ground,” EU’s election chief observer to The Gambia, Norbert Neuser told reporters.
“All EU observers are bound by a code of conduct which requires strict neutrality and non- interference, the EU Mission undertakes its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation,” he added.
According to him, the mission will publish its initial findings in a preliminary statement which will follow by recommendations to stakeholders.
Meanwhile, he said “I believe it is crucial for the European Union to observe this election and I trust that state authorities, political parties and all candidates will play their part in promoting a credible and peaceful election”, said Chief Observer Mr. Norbert Neuser during Friday’s press conference.
“We will observe the pre-election phase as well as the voting, counting and tabulation process. The EU EOM will provide a comprehensive assessment of the entire electoral process and provide recommendations for future elections. We stick strictly to our mandate of non-interference and neutrality. Our mission is here to contribute with impartial and objective assessments,” he said.
Around Election Day an additional 38 short-term observers will reinforce the EU Election Observation Mission, which will have around 70 observers and analysts on the ground. All EU EOM observers are bound by a code of conduct, which requires strict neutrality and non-interference.
The EU Mission undertakes its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation. It will publish its initial findings in a preliminary statement, which will be presented at a press conference shortly after Election Day. A final report with recommendations to all stakeholders will be presented at a later stage.