Guardians of the Ballot: ACG’s Expanding Footprint in African Elections
In a region where democratic systems are constantly tested by political tensions, institutional weaknesses, and voter apathy, credible election observation is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity. The African Centre for Governance (ACG) has responded to this imperative with bold ambition and principled commitment. Over the past twelve months, ACG has grown from a national player to a regional force, with a visible presence in five key electoral contexts: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, and Malawi.
Our mission is not simply to observe, but to build confidence in electoral systems, expose gaps that threaten democracy, and contribute to continental standards of democratic integrity. We stand for African-led solutions, driven by evidence, anchored in context, and fuelled by collaboration.
In May 2024, ACG deployed observers to South Africa’s national elections — a defining moment in the country’s democratic trajectory. Our team engaged with the Electoral Commission of South Africa, political parties, the media, and civil society organisations. The elections were orderly and largely peaceful, but not without concern. We noted a rise in misinformation, uneven media coverage, and declining trust among first-time voters — issues that, if unaddressed, could erode the country’s democratic edge. Our presence helped elevate these concerns into national discourse.
Shortly thereafter, in July 2024, ACG conducted a pre-election assessment in Botswana. Known for its historical democratic stability, Botswana still faces critical challenges. Our consultations with the Independent Electoral Commission, civil society, and political stakeholders revealed a growing unease with the transparency of the electoral framework, perceptions of political interference, and the limited space for robust civic engagement. ACG provided timely recommendations and continues to advocate for an inclusive electoral environment as the country moves toward elections.
Namibia offered another critical platform. In August 2024, our team was welcomed by state institutions and electoral stakeholders for a comprehensive pre-election assessment ahead of their November general elections. The mission met with the Ministry of Justice, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), the Namibian Police Force, the Office of the Judiciary, and the Ministry of International Relations. We were impressed by the inter-institutional coordination, logistical preparedness, and security protocols. Yet, we flagged the need for enhanced public communication on electronic voting technologies, to avoid misinformation and enhance transparency.
In Mozambique, ACG responded to an official invitation by the government and electoral commission to observe the 2024 elections. Our team was composed of Pan-African experts and regional partners, reinforcing our belief that regional solidarity must be the backbone of electoral cooperation. The mission took place in a politically sensitive environment — with issues of post-conflict reconciliation, electoral violence, and institutional mistrust looming. Our observers noted the resilience of electoral officials under pressure, and the vital role of civil society in community-level conflict prevention.
Most recently, ACG conducted a high-level pre-election assessment in Malawi in May 2025, ahead of its general elections in September. This was one of our most comprehensive engagements to date. We met with the Malawi Electoral Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Malawi Defence Force, the judiciary, and prominent civil society actors including CEDE, HRDC, and NICE. The mission identified strengths in institutional coordination and planning, but also exposed critical vulnerabilities — including concerns over procurement transparency, the results transmission system, and stakeholder perception around the neutrality of key appointments within MEC. We are finalising a detailed report to inform local and regional actors and support reform recommendations.
What distinguishes ACG is not just where we go, but how we work. Our observation missions are driven by Pan-African values and global best practices, including the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, the SADC Principles and Guidelines, and the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation. Our methodology is rigorous, context-driven, and rooted in dialogue — with observers trained to identify systemic risks, engage constructively with institutions, and leave behind a trail of usable recommendations.
ACG’s presence in these countries is not coincidental. It is intentional — a reflection of our growing credibility, our ability to convene critical actors, and our belief that democracy in Africa must be owned by its people. But no organisation can do this alone. The road ahead requires partnerships — with development agencies, observer networks, electoral commissions, and forward-thinking governments.
We are calling on those who share our vision: to walk with us as we strengthen electoral institutions, train the next generation of observers, and safeguard the integrity of the ballot across the continent. Let us build a Pan-African movement for democratic resilience — one mission, one country, one election at a time.
For partnership enquiries or to join our observer missions, write to us at info@africancentregov.org.
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