SADC deploys Observer Mission for Seychelles elections

Richard Muponde

Zimpapers Politics Hub

THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has deployed its Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to the Republic of Seychelles for the country’s upcoming Presidential and National Assembly Elections, scheduled for September 25-27.

The mission, which will be in Seychelles from September 9 to October 4, aims to monitor the entire electoral process to ensure it aligns with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.

The deployment was mandated by Malawian President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.

The SEOM will observe the pre-election, polling day, and post-election phases from its headquarters at the Eden Bleu Hotel on Mahe Island.

The official launch is set for September 18, with a preliminary statement expected to be released on September 29.

In a statement, Ms Barbara Lopi, Head of Communication and Public Relations at SADC, said the mission underscores the organisation’s commitment to promoting democracy in the region.

“SADC is deploying this mission to ensure that the electoral process in Seychelles meets the standards outlined in our revised Principles and Guidelines,” she said.

“These principles emphasise free and fair elections, citizen participation in democratic processes, and equal access to state-owned media for all political players.

“They also underline the importance of respecting and accepting election results, which strengthens both peace and stability.”

Ms Lopi added that the mission’s work extends beyond election day itself.

“Our observers will be engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including electoral bodies, political parties, civil society and the media on Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue islands,” she explained.

“This will help us gain a comprehensive view of the environment in which the elections are being held.

“We want to ensure that Seychelles’ citizens are afforded every opportunity to exercise their democratic rights in a transparent and credible manner.”

The mission’s schedule includes refresher training for observers, consultation meetings with electoral stakeholders, and field observations during the three-day voting period.

Short-term observers are expected to depart on September 30, with the mission officially concluding on October 4–@muponderichard.