For the first time, Equatorial Guinea’s voters will elect members of a new parliament, House of Representatives as well as municipalities, established in accordance with the constitutional reforms of February 2012. Political parties have shared their platforms and ideas with Equatoguineans as part of the country’s efforts to educate voters and continue its efforts to further develop the country.
The country’s majority political party, the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), along with the 10 parties that form the country’s democratic coalition, gathered in the Malabo stadium today to close their electoral campaign. In the closing ceremony, PDGE’s representative noted that women and youth have played a major role in the elections, more than in previous campaigns.
In his closing remarks, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogosaid the country’s rapid development has been unexpected for many, and that it shows how much they have to offer. “We are certain that by 2020, we will achieve our development goals,” he said. “A country’s success is measured by its people, and Equatoguineans are playing a significant role in the nation’s development.”
Equatorial Guinea is an independent, sovereign and free country. “Equatorial Guinea can be considered a prosperous country. We are able to use our natural resources and enjoy a good administration,” said President Obiang. “We want continuous progress for our country and want to see more Equatoguineans participate in government matters.”
In reference to Equatorial Guinea’s politics, Obiangsaid that, “Equatorial Guinea’s political process is a learning process for our country. It needs to be tailored to Equatoguineans.”
In reference to the election, Lucas Nguema, PDGE’s Secretary General and national director for the campaign said, “This campaign has provided our party with the opportunity to share our platform that has as an end goal to move Equatorial Guinea towards a self-sufficient and growing economy.”
Two political parties and a coalition of parties are participating in the upcoming elections to be held on 26 May 2013. 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.