Title: Raising awareness among Malagasy voters for transparent and responsible elections
Introduction :
In the context of the presidential election looming in Madagascar, the NGO Transparency International has decided to take the bull by the horns by launching a guide intended to raise awareness among Malagasy voters. Faced with the corrupt practices and lack of transparency that have often tainted electoral campaigns in the country, this guide aims to inform and mobilize citizens for a responsible and informed vote.
The challenges of a transparent election:
In many countries, election campaigns are often marked by reckless spending, gifts to voters and other forms of corruption. In Madagascar, this is particularly glaring, with distributions of t-shirts, money and grandiose performances that often take precedence over the programs of the candidates. It is therefore essential to educate voters on the importance of choosing ideas over money or gifts.
The “hayfidy” guide to an informed vote:
To support Malagasy voters in their choice, Transparency International has set up the “hayfidy” guide, which means “knowing how to vote” in Malagasy. This guide offers a comparative evaluation grid for candidates, allowing voters to rate various criteria such as the feasibility of the program over five years, its relevance to the needs of the population and the integrity of the candidate and his political entourage. This grid makes it possible to refine voters’ choices and help them make an informed decision.
Fighting corruption and promoting transparency:
The “hayfidy” guide is also an opportunity for Transparency International to recall the importance of transparency and the fight against corruption in the electoral process. In particular, it encourages candidates to disclose the sources of funding for their election campaign, a practice that guarantees greater transparency and limits the risk of corruption. Although certain electoral laws have not been revised in this direction, the organization is counting on the lucidity and the will of the voters to influence the course of things.
Mobilization across the country:
To ensure wide dissemination of the “hayfidy” guide, Transparency International is appealing to all organizations involved in raising awareness of the electoral process in Madagascar. Training on the use of this tool has already started in several regions of the country. In addition, a version of the guide will also be disseminated in video and audio format, in order to reach as many voters as possible.
Conclusion :
With the “hayfidy” guide, Transparency International hopes to contribute to more transparent and responsible elections in Madagascar. By raising awareness among voters, encouraging them to choose ideas over gifts and promoting transparency in the electoral process, the NGO wishes to make this presidential election a true democratic moment for the country. The ball is now in the court of the voters, who have the power to influence the course of events by making an informed and responsible choice