Equatorial Guinea: President Obiang calls on all citizens to get involved in the upcoming elections

SOURCE Republic of Equatorial Guinea

In an address to the nation, President Obiang of Equatorial Guinea called all citizens to get involved in the upcoming elections, stating he expects civility, patriotism, citizenship, and responsibility during the elections. "In our emerging democracy, we encourage all candidates to campaign hard, but in a fair and transparent manner. We hope candidates do not fight against one another, but rather engage in a campaign of ideas that foster genuine democratic participation. The elections are not intended to raise tribal rivalries, hatred or offenses which violate the individual and collective rights of our country."

In reference to the upcoming elections, U.S. Ambassador to Equatorial Guinea Mark L. Asquino stated, "I have had the opportunity to speak with President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo about the general elections that are coming up, which offer an opportunity to Equatorial Guinea to show that it is committed to democratic development, for which reason it is a very important date for the history of the country."

Two political parties and a coalition of parties are participating in the election campaign. The political parties include the Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS) and the Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea (APGE) party, and the coalition includes the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and the majority of the registered political parties in the country.

Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, National Director of the Electoral Campaign stated, "We are calling upon the People of Equatorial Guinea to demonstrate political maturity to the international community. The debate of ideas between parties must demonstrate leadership through civility and transparency. A successful election will help to showcase our growing civil society to the world."