U.S. Embassy
Avenida Kenneth Kaunda, 193
Caixa Postal, 783
Maputo
MOZAMBIQUE
PRESS RELEASE
U.S. Embassy Statement on the October 10, 2018 Municipal Elections
October 15, 2018 –We congratulate the people of Mozambique for their participation in the October 10, 2018 municipal elections. Based on the observations of our accredited election observers, the voting process appeared to be largely free, fair, and credible in the majority of the 53 participating municipalities. We are, however, concerned about reported irregularities in a few municipalities. We note that there are established legal mechanisms for addressing and investigating election complaints. A transparent, expeditious and peaceful resolution of these issues through existing legal channels will help strengthen confidence in the electoral process.
Our observations suggest that, aside from a few isolated incidents, the campaign and election day itself were generally peaceful and calm, and that media coverage was, for the most part, inclusive. We commend civil society organizations for their coordinated efforts to observe the campaign and elections. We also recognize the work of the majority of polling station staff who worked tirelessly and continuously from before the opening of the polls through the closing and counting procedures.
We encourage the National Electoral Commission and other stakeholders, including all the political parties that participate in the work of these electoral bodies, to continue to build on lessons learned from these municipal elections and apply them to continue improving electoral procedures. Such measures will further reinforce Mozambicans’ faith in their democracy, and the sustainable peace that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
For more information about this press release, please contact the U.S. Embassy Maputo Press Office at MaputoPress@state.gov.
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