Lesotho: The importance of drawing election observers from civil society (continued)

3. To ensure equal voting rights and practices

A genuine election demands equality of all eligible voters regardless of belief, gender or social status.

There are several examples of unequal practices being pursued:

• The socially and economically underprivileged in many societies (not only in the developing world) are not registered as voters.
• A system of separate voters' lists for the different religious denominations exits in Pakistan.
• Women in several societies are not allowed to vote freely or vote at all even if they are enlisted as voters.

Promotion of fair electoral processes demands regular action by civil society to ensure non-discrimination on the grounds of belief or gender.

4. To guarantee equality of opportunity

In many developing democracies elections have become a competition between people who have enough money to participate.

Added to that, various methods have been institutionalised to stop the active participation of the middle and working classes in the electoral contest.

In Pakistan for example, the constitution-in-abeyance allows the authorities to assess potential candidates by subjective considerations (Article 62 and 63 of the 1973 constitution).

Observers need to be aware of the restrictions that exist to undermine the role of all social classes in the electoral process.

5. To Monitor Post-Election Redress Mechanisms

The mechanisms for settlement of election complaints and disputes need to be improved in several countries.

Observers need to check out the regulations and procedures.

Monitor the complaints which are investigated and ensure that the process is undertaken with justice and fairness for all parties.

Democratic practices need to be promoted in the electoral system and the Media.

6. To promote democratic electoral practices

The need to promote a democratic culture is important in all societies, particularly those which have not experienced a long period of free and fair elections.

A continuous dialogue with the people is required to develop a democratic culture. Observer groups have an important role to play in this area.

7. To assist political parties without bias

Genuine democratic elections demand organised and democratically functioning political parties.

Observers can assist in the following ways by regular monitoring:

• Of the choice of candidates by political parties;
• Of the performance of the political parties after the election as well as the party structured; and
• Of the decision-making bodies of the political parties

This will not only help the political parties but it will also promote fair electoral choices.