The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has raised serious concerns about the abuse of incumbency by political parties in their campaigns for the 2024 general elections.
In its second Pre-Election Observation Report, covering the period from October 26 to November 8, 2024, CODEO highlighted the use of state resources, including government-owned vehicles, in support of campaign activities.
The report revealed that around 11% of observer reports documented instances of public vehicles being used to promote incumbent candidates.
CODEO called on all stakeholders to ensure fairness in the upcoming elections, stressing the importance of civic and voter education, issue-based campaigning, and a commitment to maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
Additionally, CODEO urged political actors to refrain from exploiting their position for electoral advantage, particularly through the misuse of state resources or engaging in vote-buying practices, as the December 7 elections draw near.
“Observers noted instances of potential abuse of incumbency by incumbent candidates or appointees of the government. About 11% of observer reports noted the use of public (state or local) vehicles for campaigning on behalf of an incumbent candidate.
“For instance, in the Tatale-Sanguli constituency in the Northern Region, the NPP Parliamentary candidates’ flyers were used to brand the government-led District Road Improvement Program (DRIP), which saw the distribution of earth-moving equipment to MMDAs for road improvement.
“The campaign flyers of the Tatale Sanguli Member of Parliament and parliamentary candidate for the constituency were seen on the DRIP Program equipment (bulldozer), which was being used to maintain and expand roads in the Sagban community”, the press release stated.
