CIAO DATE: 11/2009
October 2002
Mali’s 2002 presidential elections mark an important step in Mali’s democratic consolidation following the completion of President Alpha Oumar Konare’s two terms in office. Overall, the elections were peaceful, well managed, and conducted in a spirit of transparency. The high number of presidential candidates (24) participating in the elections on April 28, 2002, indicates significant enthusiasm for multiparty electoral competition but also the highly personalized character of politics in Mali. The general atmosphere during the electoral campaign was positive, and there were no reports of intimidation before or on election day. However, the conduct of the tabulation process generated concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the reported results. The Center sent a small delegation of staff and observers and therefore did not attempt to observe on a countrywide basis or to prepare its own comprehensive statement on the election. In addition to its own observations, the Center consulted widely with other observers, political party representatives, and voters in order to take note of their concerns with the electoral process.
Resource link: Observing The 2002 Mali Presidential Elections [PDF] - 514K