- AFRINIC board election annulled due to a disputed proxy vote, disenfranchising hundreds of valid votes.
- Cloud Innovation Ltd. petitions for AFRINIC’s dissolution, citing governance failures and stalled elections.
Election delays undermine democracy
AFRINIC held a board election in June 2025 after a prolonged leadership vacuum. However, the election was annulled over a disputed proxy vote, invalidating hundreds of valid votes. This has deepened doubts about the registry’s ability to conduct fair elections.
Cloud Innovation, AFRINIC’s third-largest member, criticised the annulment and called for urgent reform. They believe delays in elections prevent them from resolving governance failures and protecting Africa’s IP resources.
Also read: EXPOSED: The letter that reveals who was really benefitting from AFRINIC’s lawsuits
Legal delays stall accountability
Under official receiver Gowtamsingh Dabee, key legal actions have been repeatedly postponed. Cloud Innovation has filed petitions in the Supreme Court of Mauritius, seeking AFRINIC’s dissolution and the appointment of a new regional internet registry.
These delays prevent timely resolution of governance disputes and hinder efforts to restore transparency and operational stability. Analysts warn that stalled proceedings also weaken stakeholder confidence in AFRINIC’s management.
Also read: How the Supreme Court of Mauritius became a global defender of digital rights
Stakeholder confidence erodes
The lack of a functional board and ongoing delays have left AFRINIC in a state of uncertainty. Members and partners question whether the registry can manage critical internet resources effectively.
Observers note that prolonged uncertainty risks external interference. ICANN has already raised concerns about AFRINIC’s governance and emphasised the need for transparent, fair processes.
Also read: ICANN or ICan’t? CEO Lindqvist chooses dictatorship over democracy in AFRINIC
Calls for reform and dissolution
Cloud Innovation argues that dissolution is necessary to restore proper governance and protect Africa’s internet resources. The company supports ICANN’s derecognition of AFRINIC, provided a successor registry is appointed immediately.
The ongoing crisis illustrates the urgent need for stronger governance mechanisms and accountability to ensure Africa’s digital infrastructure remains secure and effectively managed.
