The first findings of the WANEP (West Africa Network for Peacebuilding) electoral monitoring unit reveal that polling stations were mostly opened in accordance with established rules, despite some notable delays.
This Sunday, November 17, 2024, Senegal enters a new phase of its democratic process with the legislative elections. From 8 a.m., most polling stations opened their doors across the country, according to the WANEP (West Africa Network for Peacebuilding) electoral monitoring unit.
In its press release n°1 published this morning, the WANEP electoral monitoring unit affirms that “ generally speaking, the procedures were respected » for the opening of the polling stations. The document states that “ 98.7% of office members were present at the opening. »
However, compliance with the official opening time, set at 8 a.m., was only observed in 61.7% of offices, according to the data collected. Likewise ” 38.3% of polling stations experienced shortcomings linked to a slight delay in the effective start », Indicates the press release. Among the reasons given are the absence of an assessor in two offices, located in the center of Medina Bambilor and at the Badara Sarr school, in the commune of Mbour.
The electoral monitoring unit also notes that “97.8% of electoral materials were available », including ballot boxes, voting booths, indelible inks, as well as ballots and lists of voters. Some delays were nevertheless noted in certain offices, linked to late delivery of ballot papers and attendance lists.
A minor incident reported
WANEP also reports a minor incident at a polling station at Patte d’Oie Builders school. “ Failure to respect the order of placing the lists caused a delay », Indicates the press release. However, the problem was quickly resolved, allowing voting operations to begin.
Despite these slight dysfunctions, the monitoring unit, which deployed 100 observers in 42 of the country’s 46 departments, ensures that the vote takes place in a peaceful climate. Observers remain mobilized to “receive and analyze information throughout the day. »
The WANEP electoral monitoring unit, which mobilized 100 observers in 42 of Senegal’s 46 departments, says it continues to collect and analyze data on the ground. The aim is to monitor and mitigate the risks of electoral violence throughout this crucial day.
The vote continues in a generally calm climate, giving hope for an election day marked by transparency and democratic accountability.
ARD/te/Sf/APA
