Electoral Commission Defends Security Measures and Voting Procedures in South West State Election

GOOBJOOG NEWS|BAIDOA: The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) has defended the security arrangements, access procedures, and voting safeguards for the upcoming South West State presidential election, following complaints from some candidates about the conduct of the process.
The commission said security at polling stations is being provided by state security agencies, which have deployed personnel tasked with protecting all candidates participating in the election. It maintained that the arrangements comply with the country’s electoral laws and are intended to guarantee a safe environment for voters and contestants.
Addressing concerns over access to the polling venue, the commission said all candidates will be granted equal access to the voting center and that security measures have been put in place to ensure a fair and orderly process.
The electoral body also emphasized the need to protect the secrecy and integrity of the ballot, warning against activities that could compromise the voting process. It instructed candidates and their representatives to refrain from actions that may interfere with ballot confidentiality or violate election regulations.
According to the commission, the measures are based on provisions contained in the Electoral Law No. 28 of 2024, including articles governing candidate protection, access to polling centers, and the safeguarding of secret ballots.
The response comes amid growing political tensions surrounding the South West State presidential race, with some candidates raising concerns over security and election management in the lead-up to the vote.
The commission urged all contestants and their supporters to comply with electoral laws and cooperate with authorities to ensure a peaceful and credible election.