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How does election monitoring impact the credibility of electoral outcomes?

Jaleel Emmer

Election monitoring has a significant impact on the credibility of electoral outcomes. When elections are held, people expect them to be free, fair, and transparent. However, this is not always the case in many parts of the world. Election monitoring serves as an essential component of ensuring credible electoral outcomes.

Election monitoring involves different methods of observing, verifying, and assessing electoral processes in a given country. This process allows stakeholders and the public to witness the credibility of electoral outcomes and the fairness of electoral processes. The presence of local, national, and international election observers helps to scrutinize and verify the credibility of the electoral processes.

One of the key benefits of election monitoring is that it helps to detect any irregularities in the electoral process. For instance, election monitors can observe and report cases of voter intimidation, vote manipulation, or any other attempts to influence outcomes in favor of a particular candidate. This information helps to alert the stakeholders and the public about possible attempts to undermine the credibility of the election, allowing them to take necessary actions to prevent such irregularities.

Furthermore, election monitoring increases transparency in the electoral process. It helps to reveal any corrupt practices by providing impartial and independent assessments of the voting process. Election observation reports, which are generated by the observers, help to increase awareness and knowledge about the electoral system, thereby increasing public confidence in the process.

Election monitoring also promotes accountability in the electoral process. With election monitors keeping a keen eye on the process, there is a greater level of scrutiny of the electoral commissions and their staff, as well as political parties and candidates. This increases the accountability of all stakeholders involved, preventing them from engaging in any illegal or inappropriate behavior that could undermine the credibility of the election.

However, despite its numerous benefits, election monitoring is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is that election monitors may face hostility and resistance from the ruling party or government officials. Governments may deny any wrongdoing or restrict areas or districts from observation due to concerns of foreign intervention or influencing of the electoral process.

In conclusion, election monitoring plays a crucial role in ensuring credible electoral outcomes. It serves as an essential tool for promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral process. As a result, it is necessary to have a strong commitment to ensuring proper electoral procedures and measures that promote free and fair elections. This will help to foster democracy and promote political stability in society.