For the first time, a European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) will assess an electoral process in Lesotho. The Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho has invited the European Union (EU) to observe the National Assembly elections of 2022, to be held on Friday, 7 October.

To carry out its mandate, the EU EOM will deploy more than eighty experts and observers throughout the country, led by a Member of the European Parliament, Mr. Ignazio Corrao as its Chief Observer.

The EU EOM Core Team arrived on 27 August and will be in-country until 30 October. The EO EOM assesses the electoral processes of Lesotho in the light of international standards and regional commitments on democratic elections. This assessment includes all aspects of electoral cycle from the legal framework to the electoral campaign and its coverage in the media and social networks.

The mission analyses the impartiality, efficiency, and transparency of the electoral administration in preparation of elections as well as during polling, counting, processing and publication of the results. The EU EOM will follow any appeals that may arise after election day.

In line with the EU methodology on election observation, the mission will issue a preliminary statement and hold a press conference in Maseru after the election day. A final report, including recommendations for future electoral processes, will be presented after the finalisation of the entire electoral process.

Together, these observation and analysis efforts seek to further strengthen peace and democracy in Lesotho.