Adopted on 20 July 2015, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa 13.2.2 In order to evaluate the Implementation of the “SADC Principles for Conducting Democratic Elections” and “Responsibilities of Member States Holding Elections”, contained in sections four (4) and five (5) respectively, the SEOM shall assess whether the legal and constitutional framework guarantees freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of association and human rights. 13.2.3 Accordingly, the structure and model of the electoral system, the EMB, the Electoral Act and regulations and the nature of civil and political rights; and economic, social and cultural rights as they relate to democratic participation shall be assessed. 13.2.4 SEOMs shall evaluate the establishment, process of appointment and retention of members of EMBs; in addition to assessing the composition, status, independence, impartiality, professionalism and preparedness of the EMB for the election. Accordingly, the following specific considerations shall be taken into account: (a) (b) (c) (d) 13.2.5 The adequacy of funding and contingencies availed to the EMB to deliver a credible and legitimate election; Whether the EMB’s budget is appropriated by Parliament or other representative institution; Whether the composition of the EMB reflects the applicable provisions of the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, particularly Articles 12 and 13 of the Protocol, which stipulate that State Parties that have ratified the Protocol, shall endeavor, by 2015, to have at least 50 percent women in decision making positions, including electoral administration. Whether appointment and dismissal procedures of EMB commissioners are explicitly stated and articulated to facilitate impartiality, accountability and transparency. In furtherance of the values of Electoral Justice, the SEOM shall ensure that the delimitation of election boundaries was done in a manner acceptable to stakeholders, and whether the factors that prompted delimitation were in accordance with the laws of the land. To this end, the following elements shall be assessed: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) The independence and impartiality of the Delimitation/Border Commission; The composition of the Delimitation/Border Commission; The criteria for appointing members of the Delimitation/Border Commission; The accessibility of the delimitation process to the general public; Whether the delimitation process was undertaken in accordance with the national law and without undue exclusion of particular groups or political interests. 13.2.6 That the registration of political parties, qualification and disqualification of political candidates are explicitly provided for in national laws. There should be no stringent exclusionary elements in the regulatory framework of - 19 -