By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
Botswana’s 2024 general elections were largely consistent with national, regional, and international electoral frameworks, according to a preliminary report from the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) and the Electoral Support Network of Southern Africa (ESN-SA).
The report, based on observations from a five-member team deployed across urban, peri-urban, and rural areas surrounding the capital, Gaborone, commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections.
“The overall process was largely in line with national, regional, and international frameworks,” the report stated, citing a calm and orderly election day.
ZESN and ESN-SA also noted several positive elements, including the active participation of political party agents, gender diversity among polling staff, and youth involvement in election duties.
The observers also acknowledged the role of unarmed security personnel, who helped maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
“The security officers were non-intimidating and professional, playing an important role in maintaining the calm atmosphere,” the report noted.
While the election was deemed largely successful, the report identified areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring greater transparency and fostering public trust.
ZESN and ESN-SA called on the Botswana Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to review its approach to advance voting.
“The IEC should ensure that advance voting is conducted in a manner that builds and promotes public trust,” the report recommended, suggesting improvements in logistics and better accessibility of polling stations for early voters.
The report also underscored the importance of enhancing the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the electoral process.
It urged the government to provide CSOs with the necessary tools and support to improve transparency and strengthen democratic practices.
“CSOs must be given the tools and support to engage effectively in the electoral process, as this enhances transparency and strengthens the democratic framework,” the report stated.
On the issue of vote counting, ZESN and ESN-SA recommended that ballots be counted at polling stations with immediate posting of results. This, they said, would allow voters and party agents to verify results in real-time, increasing the process’s transparency.
“Counting at the polling station level and posting the results there will increase the transparency of the electoral process,” the report said.
The observers also suggested that Botswana consider using translucent ballot boxes in future elections to further enhance transparency and reassure the public about the integrity of the vote.
Despite some logistical challenges, the report concluded that the IEC was well-prepared for the elections.
It affirmed that the electoral process adhered to both Botswana’s laws and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) principles for democratic elections.
“While there were some logistical challenges, the overall process was peaceful, transparent, and aligned with regional democratic standards,” the report concluded.