1. Vote counting

The procedures for the counting of ballots should provide safeguards that guarantee a transparent, prompt, and accurate count. Only authorized staff should be involved in the closing of polling stations and the counting of votes. All staff should follow procedures specified in the law and regulations. Candidate and political party agents and observers should be allowed to observe all stages of the counting process.

2. Reporting/declaring results

Detailed results should be published at every stage of the vote tabulation and be available for public inspection at the polling station/counting center. The final election results should be declared after the deadline for the submission of any challenges to the results has passed.

3. Recognition of results

Candidates and political parties should have the right to challenge the validity of election results. Procedures should be established to allow challenges to be made within an appropriate timeframe to an independent body. Challenges should be dealt with impartially and decisions should be made without political consideration. Successful candidates should be installed in office without undue delay.