INTRODUCTION
The Electoral Support Network of Southern Africa (ESN-SA) and the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) jointly deployed a ten-member observer mission with experienced observation practitioners to observe polling processes in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape Provinces during the National and Provincial elections. The primary objective of the Joint Observer Mission was to evaluate whether the South African electoral process adhered to national laws and to determine if the country’s electoral framework aligns with regional and international principles, norms, standards, and best practices. This initiative underscores the Network’s dedication to advancing democratic integrity and transparent electoral processes throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
