Why have elections in Equatorial Guinea been criticized by observers?

Elections in Equatorial Guinea have been consistently criticized by domestic and international observers due to widespread concerns regarding their credibility and fairness.123

Observers have frequently reported the following issues surrounding the electoral process:

• Electoral Irregularities and Fraud: Ballots have been characterized by persistent charges of fraud and procedural irregularities, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the results.1234
• Intimidation and Coercion: Reports have consistently noted instances of intimidation and coercion directed at voters and opposition members, which undermine the integrity of the democratic process.234
• Unfair Campaign Practices: The political environment is heavily skewed in favor of the ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), with opposition parties facing significant obstacles and harassment.123
• Lack of Political Competition: President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has maintained power since 1979, winning elections by lopsided margins—often exceeding 90 percent of the vote—in a system where opposition influence remains minimal.1234

These practices are fundamentally incompatible with the ethical principles of free, fair, and transparent democratic governance, which require that all citizens be able to participate in elections without fear or manipulation.234