Paraguay Opens Applications for Electoral Observers for Municipal Elections

The Superior Electoral Justice Tribunal (TSJE) in Paraguay has established the framework for national electoral observation, approving regulations for citizens and organizations wishing to monitor the upcoming municipal elections on October 4. This move aims to ensure transparency and public trust in the electoral process.

Interested parties can now apply for accreditation as electoral observers. The TSJE has released detailed guidelines outlining the rights, regulations, obligations, deadlines, and required documentation for participation in the National Electoral Observation Plan. This information is crucial for organizations and individuals seeking to act as custodians of the popular will.

Accredited observers will have the opportunity to monitor pre-election, election, and post-election stages across all 263 municipalities. They will gain access to polling stations and scrutiny processes, receive public information about the electoral proceedings, and be able to present recommendations and reports directly to the TSJE. This broad access is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the election's integrity.

To be accredited, legal entities must demonstrate a commitment to strengthening democracy. They must submit an application to the TSJE at least 30 days before the elections, including authenticated organizational documents, proof of legal representation, and the detailed National Electoral Observation Plan. This plan must specify the observation objectives, targeted activities and locations, observer deployment strategy, funding sources, responsible parties, and training materials. Candidates, political activists, public officials in directive roles, and minors are ineligible to serve as observers. Observers are obligated to act with impartiality, objectivity, and independence, refrain from political proselytism, and not interfere with the election process.