Three new NDI publications address different aspects of the democratic process – selecting candidates for legislative office, establishing the legal framework for democratic elections and conducting effective constituent relations.

Speakers representing NDI, the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) commended Angolans for conducting largely successful parliamentary elections Sept. 5 despite some procedural and logistical challenges.

Angolans went to the polls for the first time in 16 years in September to vote for a new parliament. Despite some concerns, the Sept. 5 polls unfolded in a generally peaceful way, much to the credit of citizens who came out to vote in large numbers and political parties that encouraged members to adhere to a strict code of conduct.

Representatives from the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and civil society weighed in on the political implications of “Zimbabwe’s New Deal” — a historic agreement between ZANU-PF, the longtime ruling party, and the two formations of the opposition MDC that many hope will lead to an effective unity government.

The representatives participated in a Sept. 16 event organized by NDI and Freedom House.