On 25 September, the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Príncipe held legislative, regional and municipal elections.
Following an invitation by the Government of São Tomé e Príncipe, the European Union deployed its first ever Election Observation Mission (EOM) to the country to undertake an independent, impartial and technical assessment of all aspects of the electoral process.
The Mission has issued a preliminary statement on the elections, reporting on a peaceful and free election campaign and voting day as well as on overall satisfactory voting and counting operations.
The EOM will stay in São Tomé e Príncipe to observe the full electoral cycle. Upon completion of the electoral process, the Mission will publish a comprehensive final report, including its recommendations to improve future electoral processes.
The EU reaffirms its commitment to continue working with São Tomé e Príncipe, a long-standing partner, on all areas of mutual interest, including to further strengthening democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in the country. The EU will explore how to further cooperate and support the authorities, political parties and civil society at large to address the Mission’s recommendations.
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