As opposition political parties are expressing doubts over the peaceful conduct of the December 8, 2020 midterm senatorial election, the United States Department of States has issued a cautionary statement noting that it is committed to supporting free, fair, inclusive elections.
The statement further said, “The conduct of elections is important not only for Africans, but also for defenders of democracy around the world. We believe all sides should participate peacefully in the democratic process. Repression and intimidation have no place in democracies.”
It also stressed, “The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression and association are at the heart of a functioning democracy. Adherence to these democratic norms and to the rule of law allows all citizens to engage in political dialogue and support their choice of candidates, parties, and platforms.”
Concluding, the U.S. States Department also warned, “We will watch closely the actions of individuals who interfere in the democratic process and will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those responsible for election-related violence. As long-time partners to the nations of Africa, we care about the region’s democratic trajectory and are committed to working constructively with international and regional partners,” the statement issued by the United State Secretary of State, Michael R. Pompeo noted.
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