The Chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group in Antigua and Barbuda has said that they are not here to interfere in the election process, but primarily to observe.

Danny Faure, who is the head of the delegation said they act independently while encouraging citizens and residents to vote in the country’s general election on 18 January 2023.

The former President of Seychelles made his remarks in a statement in the capital Saint John’s, following the arrival of five Commonwealth observers.

Over the next few days, observers will receive a series of briefings from political parties, civil society, women’s and youth groups, and the media to gain a better understanding of the mood in the country ahead of the election.

President Faure Danny said the group’s task, as independent and impartial observers, is to assess the entire electoral process. He continued:

“The task we have been given is one we take seriously and will undertake solemnly in compliance with international standards for the conduct of international observers.”

Over the next few days, observers will receive a series of briefings from political parties, civil society, women’s and youth groups, and the media to gain a better understanding of the mood in the country ahead of the election.

Following the election, the group will submit its recommendations in a report to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, who will forward it to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the country’s Electoral Commission, the leadership of political parties taking part in the elections, and all Commonwealth governments. The report will be made public shortly after this.

The group’s eminent members include serving and former politicians, elections professionals, and journalists, hailing from Jamaica, Kenya, Seychelles, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the United Kingdom.