Publication:

Report of the African Union Election Observation Mission to the 24 August 2022, General Elections in the Republic of Angola.

The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) observed Angola’s 24 August 2022 general elections, held amid socio-economic challenges linked to declining oil revenues and the COVID-19 pandemic. These elections were closely contested, with MPLA’s João Lourenço seeking reelection against UNITA’s Adalberto Costa Junior. Seven parties and one coalition competed for the presidency and 220 National Assembly seats. The elections, while peaceful, saw low voter turnout at 44.82%, a drop from 76.1% in 2017. Angola introduced diaspora voting for the first time and implemented legal reforms allowing direct results transmission but limited the number of election observers, raising concerns over transparency. The proportional representation system promoted inclusivity but lacked affirmative action to address underrepresentation of women, youth, and people with disabilities. The opposition criticized unequal media access and alleged misuse of state resources by the ruling MPLA. The MPLA secured 51.17% of votes, a decline from 2017, while UNITA’s share rose to 43.95%. Opposition claims of irregularities led to peaceful protests and a Constitutional Court challenge, which upheld the results. AUEOM recommended reforms to enhance voter registration, increase observer access, strengthen electoral commission independence, and ensure balanced media coverage. It also called for affirmative action to boost representation of marginalized groups and improvements to election dispute mechanisms. The elections marked a step forward with diaspora voting but highlighted areas needing reform for greater transparency, inclusivity, and public confidence in Angola’s electoral processes.