Analyzing the Impact of Combined Elections on Voter Turnout and Political Engagement

The combined elections held on 26 May 2013 in Equatorial Guinea marked a significant political event, as they encompassed the senate, lower house, and mayoral contests in a single electoral package. As with previous elections, the opposition parties denounced the legitimacy of the electoral process, claiming it was marred by irregularities and a lack of transparency. The ruling party, the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), led by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, emerged victorious once again, consolidating its grip on power. During this electoral period, the PDGE also conducted internal elections, which were later annulled, raising further questions about the party's internal democracy. Notably, the authorities arrested Clara Nsegue Eyi and Natalia Angue Edjodjomo, coordinators of the Movimiento de Protesta Popular (People's Protest Movement), on 13 May 2013. Their arrest was a response to their calls for a peaceful protest against the electoral process, highlighting the government's intolerance towards dissent and opposition voices. This election cycle underscored the ongoing political tensions in Equatorial Guinea, where the ruling party continues to face criticism for its authoritarian practices and suppression of political freedoms. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #EquatorialGuinea #2013Elections #Pdge #PoliticalProtest #TeodoroObiang