Angolan groups demand electoral transparency probe
Three civil society groups asked prosecutors to investigate the Ministry of Territorial Administration's handling of voter registration data.
Angolan civil society groups HANDEKA, UYELE, and MOSAICO have formally requested the Public Prosecutor's Office to launch a judicial inquiry into the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MAT). The organizations seek audits and accountability regarding the ministry's actions, particularly concerning the unofficial electoral registration process for next year's general elections.
The groups stated they have sought clarification from the MAT since June but received no response for over four months. They argue this institutional silence raises serious concerns about the ministry's legal duty to respond, the transparency of electoral administration, and citizens' right to scrutinize public administration acts. They specifically requested an investigation into the alleged failure to remove deceased individuals' records from the database of adult citizens.
The civil society organizations also called for an independent audit of the database and its computer file to assess integrity and legal compliance. They further demanded a financial audit of accounts and expenses related to the MAT's 'proof of life' operation. The groups emphasized that electoral registration transparency is a requirement of a democratic state, not a political concession, and reaffirmed their commitment to legality and citizens' political rights.
Why it mattersAngolan citizens' right to scrutinize public administration acts and ensure the credibility of the electoral process is directly affected by the lack of transparency in electoral registration.