Civil Society Demands Electoral Reforms Ahead of 2024 Elections
As the community and municipal elections scheduled for November 2024 approach, civil society in Madagascar is once again calling on the government to implement electoral reforms that have been previously proposed but not yet implemented.
In a press release, several civil society organizations (CSOs) emphasized that the stability and progress of Madagascar depend on free and fair elections. They call on all relevant parties and electoral institutions to take action to ensure that the recommendations of election observers are followed.
Among the key demands of civil society are:
Modification of the electoral law (LORGER): Addressing legal loopholes related to pre-campaigning, campaign financing, and delays in resolving electoral disputes.
Establishment of the National Authority for the Control of Intermediary Communications (ANRCM): To ensure effective monitoring of media during elections.
Strengthening the Commission for the Control of the Financing of Political Life (CCFVP): To guarantee compliance with electoral finance regulations.
Enhanced transparency: Open access to legal information for non-state actors and civil society, and the guarantee of freedom of assembly and public demonstration.
Neutral public administration: Maintaining the impartiality of the public administration, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and territorial management, during election periods.
Improved training: Strengthening the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and its local branches.
* Transparency in campaign financing: Clear sanctions for candidates who fail to meet their financial obligations.
Civil society also urges the government to promptly set the date for municipal elections, reminding them that the original schedule was for November 6, 2024, as proposed by the CENI. Concerns have been raised about a potential delay in the date, raising questions about the government’s commitment to decentralization.