Transparency international concerned about militarisation of 2019 elections

Transparency International (TI) is a global anti-corruption organization that has expressed concerns about the militarization of the 2019 elections in several countries. Here are some examples:

  1. Nigeria: TI Nigeria warned that the deployment of military personnel to polling stations during the 2019 general elections could undermine the credibility of the process and create an intimidating environment for voters. The organization called for the military to be withdrawn from polling stations and for the electoral commission to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for voters.
  2. India: TI India expressed concerns about the use of military personnel to conduct voter verification and surveillance during the 2019 general elections. The organization argued that this could lead to voter intimidation and suppression, particularly in areas with a history of political violence.
  3. Pakistan: TI Pakistan criticized the deployment of military personnel to polling stations during the 2019 general elections, citing concerns about the potential for voter intimidation and manipulation. The organization called for the military to be withdrawn from polling stations and for the electoral commission to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
  4. Afghanistan: TI Afghanistan expressed concerns about the use of military personnel to conduct voter registration and polling during the 2019 presidential elections. The organization argued that this could lead to voter intimidation and manipulation, particularly in areas controlled by the Taliban.

TI's concerns about the militarization of elections are based on the following reasons:

  1. Voter intimidation: The presence of military personnel at polling stations can create an intimidating environment for voters, particularly in areas with a history of political violence or conflict.
  2. Manipulation of the electoral process: Military personnel may be used to influence the outcome of elections, either through direct intervention or by creating an environment that favors one candidate or party over another.
  3. Undermining of electoral credibility: The deployment of military personnel to polling stations can undermine the credibility of the electoral process and create doubts about the legitimacy of the outcome.
  4. Violations of human rights: The use of military personnel to conduct electoral activities can lead to violations of human rights, including the right to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.

TI has called on governments and electoral authorities to ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful and secure environment, free from intimidation and manipulation. The organization has also emphasized the importance of respecting human rights and the rule of law during electoral processes.