There is no single African election system
Election rules are national. Countries use different electoral systems, registration procedures, ballot designs, thresholds, constituency structures and dispute-resolution processes. A rule from one country should not be assumed to apply elsewhere.
Unofficial versus official results
Media projections, party tallies and observer estimates can be useful, but the legally recognised result normally comes through the process established by the relevant national law and election authority.
What to verify in breaking coverage
Check who issued a result, how much of the vote has been counted, whether the figure is provisional, whether a runoff threshold applies and whether legal challenges are still possible.
Frequently asked questions
Who runs elections in Africa?
Each country has its own constitutional and legal arrangements, usually involving a national election-management body and courts with defined dispute powers.
Are observer statements official results?
No. Election observers assess the process; they do not replace the authority legally responsible for declaring results.