Commonwealth observers' report on Presidential Election 2006-Election was credible |18 August 2006

The 40-page document says that the electoral commissioner, Hendrick Gappy, and his staff organised and conducted the election in a "professional and efficient manner".

“We commend his efforts to ensure the fullest possible enfranchisement of registered voters, the sensitivity of the needs of vulnerable groups, and the provision of facilities to maintain effective communication between the polling stations and his office,” the report says, adding that the voter education programme conducted by his office was very good.

“While many expressed satisfaction with the mandate and functioning of the electoral commissioner, the (observer) team did hear some concerns as to the impartiality of the office,” the experts say.

The report says that the team felt that the Code of Conduct which set out acceptable standards of behaviour relating to electioneering during the campaign period was respected in large part.

“We believe that it provides a useful guide for the appropriate conduct of all stakeholders in the election period, and can be a constructive vehicle for enhancing the electoral and political environment,” they say.

The experts add that the arrangements among the political parties and the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation for the allocation of time on television and radio for party political broadcasts during the campaign worked well and to the satisfaction of all parties.

However, the observers say that they noted some concern, fears and anxiety related to the transition of power after the victory of either of the political parties.

They nevertheless say that churches helped allay those fears.
Making their recommendations, the observers quote the following statement made by President Michel in his inauguration speech on August 1, 2006:
“I will persevere on the road we have taken together, on which we invite all Seychellois, without exception, to join us and play their part: that road that leads to unity, peace, fraternity and opportunity for all. Together we will continue to progress and to reap the fruits of our collective effort.”

The observers say that the President’s sentiments were shared by the vast majority of persons and groups with whom they spoke, and it was with that in context that they made the recommendations calling for an independent public service commission and inter-party dialogue.

The team members also say they encourage dialogue and collaboration between civil society, the government and stakeholders for the continuing development and stability of Seychelles and that campaign expenditure issues should be looked at.

The members, who were invited to serve on the Expert Team in their individual capacities, comprised Omar J. Jallow, acting secretary general, People's Progressive Party, The Gambia; Linnette Vassell, Community Development and Gender Specialist and Chair Women's Resource and Outreach Centre, Jamaica; and Mooroogessen Veerasamy PDSM, Principal Electoral Officer, Mauritius. They were assisted by Martin Kasirye and Sabhita Raju (Political Affairs Division).