Africa-Press – Cape verde. The Active Citizenship Observatory (OCA) today called for an electoral campaign that is “enlightening, free of insults, and features a constructive narrative,” ahead of the legislative elections scheduled for May 17—a campaign period that officially begins at midnight on April 30. Addressing the voting public, the Observatory urges respect for all political parties and candidates.
In a statement, the civil society organization—whose mission is citizenship education—exhorts everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly, as well as citizens both within the country and in the diaspora, to adopt a civic-minded stance that “upholds and dignifies democratic values.” It emphasizes that such conduct is fundamental to the consolidation of Cape Verde’s democratic process.
The Observatory argues that the campaign should be mobilizing and grounded in “realistic and viable” proposals—proposals capable of addressing the challenges currently facing the nation within an international context marked by crises that impact the global economy. It further highlights that Cape Verde has been buffeted by “external shocks,” which have had particularly severe consequences for low-income families; consequently, the organization deems it essential to intensify efforts to mitigate these effects, including those stemming from climate change.
Conversely, the organization expresses concern regarding “the level and quality of certain public statements” and the use of offensive language. It draws attention to a rise in personal attacks facilitated by new technologies—specifically social media and, notably, Artificial Intelligence—aimed at damaging the reputations of private citizens, regardless of whether or not they are political candidates.
“We acknowledge that social media platforms serve as valuable communication tools for disseminating political and partisan messages; however, the manner in which they are currently being utilized is a cause for concern, given the evident hostility present in certain communications,” states the document, which concludes by recommending prudence and cooperation from all parties involved. In this regard, the Observatory calls upon political parties and candidates to make specific commitments during the campaign—namely, the responsible use of technology and social media (avoiding offensive content), refraining from spreading fake news, encouraging the production of educational content regarding electoral citizenship, and engaging voters to foster informed voting decisions.
Among the recommendations are also the promotion of an ethical stance during “door-to-door” campaigning, respect for the right to diversity, a commitment to direct dialogue with voters, and adherence to citizens’ rights, freedoms, and guarantees, in full compliance with electoral legislation.
To the citizen-voter, the Observatory appeals for respect toward parties and candidates, as well as campaign caravans; it also urges citizens to report—to the National Electoral Commission and the National Police—any attempts to interfere with or restrict the right to vote. Furthermore, the organization encourages voters to inform themselves about governance platforms, avoid offensive behavior, and actively participate in the electoral process.
The statement also underscores the importance of establishing a pool of national observers, highlighting the pivotal role of civil society organizations—supported by capacity-building initiatives promoted by institutions such as the National Electoral Commission—in strengthening the monitoring of the electoral process.
The Active Citizenship Observatory assures the public that its team will remain vigilant throughout the electoral process and stands ready to collaborate with authorities and political parties, with the aim of ensuring respect for everyone’s rights and facilitating a campaign of “excellence.”
Finally, the organization expresses its hope that the upcoming elections will take place “in an atmosphere of tranquility and as a celebration of democracy.”
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