The Commonwealth Observer Group has commenced its work in Antigua and Barbuda for the 2026 General Elections, following its deployment by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey.
The Group is being led by Hon. Dr Pelonomi Venson, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Botswana, and comprises three other eminent experts drawn from across the Commonwealth with experience in election administration, politics, civil society and the media.
The Group was constituted by the Secretary-General following an invitation from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. Deploying the team, Secretary-General Botchwey said:
“I am consistently encouraged by the readiness of distinguished individuals across the Commonwealth to contribute to the strengthening of democratic processes across our member states at short notice.
“I am confident that the Chairperson, Hon. Dr Pelonomi Venson, and the members of this Group will bring their experience to bear in delivering an independent, credible and balanced assessment of the electoral process in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Members of the Commonwealth Observer Group are now in country and will remain for the duration of their mandate. The Group will assess the pre-election environment, polling day activities, and the post-election period, taking into account relevant national law, Commonwealth values, and international standards.
Ahead of the Group’s engagement in country, the Chairperson Hon. Dr Pelonomi Venson issued an arrival statement saying it is an honour to serve in this capacity.
She said:
“These elections provide an important opportunity to further strengthen democratic institutions and build public confidence in the electoral process. It is therefore important that all stakeholders uphold the principles of inclusive, transparent and participatory democracy, where every vote carries equal weight.”
The Commonwealth Observer Group will be supported by a team from the Commonwealth Secretariat, led by Lindiwe Maleleka, Political Adviser, Electoral Support Section.
During its stay, the Group will meet a wide range of stakeholders, including election officials, political representatives, civil society organisations, security agencies, the diplomatic corps, and other observer missions.
Observers will also be deployed across the twin island to observe polling, counting and results management processes.
An interim statement of preliminary findings will be issued shortly after election day, followed by a final report.
Members of the Commonwealth Observer Group
Chairperson: Hon. Dr Pelonomi Venson, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Botswana
The Commonwealth Observer Group members, in alphabetical order by country name, are:
- Candia Dames, Executive Editor of the Nassau Guardian, The Bahamas
- Mr Ian Michael Anthony, Former Chief Elections Officer, Dominica
- Mr Aiman Rasheed – Deputy Program Director, International Republican Institute, Maldives
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