The African Union (AU) has deployed an Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe for the presidential election scheduled for July 19, 2026. The mission was authorized by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, following an invitation from the government.
The AUEOM is led by H.E. Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, former UNOWAS chief and Ghanaian diplomat. The team includes election experts, long-term observers, and short-term observers who will assess the electoral process against AU standards and the country's legal framework.
Key areas of observation include the pre-election environment, voting procedures, counting, and results transmission. The mission will issue a preliminary statement shortly after election day and a final report later.
This deployment underscores the AU's commitment to supporting democratic processes in member states. São Tomé and Príncipe has a history of peaceful transitions, and the mission aims to ensure transparency and credibility.
