Algeria and Senegal prepare for upcoming local elections

Algeria is preparing for local elections on November 28, characterized by a significant increase in candidate numbers. Following new territorial divisions, the National Independent Authority for Elections (ANIE) reports that candidates for Provincial People's Assemblies (APW) have risen by 13.56% to 21,476, with available seats increasing by 21.48%. Similarly, candidates for Communal People's Assemblies (APC) have reached 141,388, a 22.70% increase compared to 2021.

In Senegal, Election Director Biram Sène has emphasized that compliance with gender parity laws is non-negotiable ahead of upcoming local and legislative elections. While Senegal has had parity laws in place since 2010, Sène noted that women remain underrepresented in certain political parties and local councils. He highlighted that some municipal councils have previously been dissolved by judges due to failure to respect parity requirements.