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Bhutan Politics - Elections |
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The
2008 Elections: Statement of EU EOM
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EU
Election Observation Mission - Bhutan
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Elections
in Bhutan showed a clear commitment of voters and state institutions to
support democratic change
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Thimphu,
25 March 2008. The National Assembly elections are a clear step towards
democratic transision in Bhutan, and mark a successful and orderly change
of political system to a constitutional monarchy, concludes the preliminary
assessment of European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM).
"The
serene atmosphere on election day fully confirms what has been observed
during the last month by our mission, the clear commitment and good will
of everyone involved in the electoral process: voters, candidates, election
staff, and representatives of media,"said Javier Pomés, Chief Observer
of the EU EOM.
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"The
election process generally met international standards for democratic elections,
but fell short in certain areas. There are no perfect elections anywhere
in the world, and also elections in Bhutan have shortcomings that will
need to be addressed".
The
EU EOM noted that a large number of voters were not registered where they
live, but in their hometowns, requiring voters to travel long distances
to exercise their right to vote. Nevertheless, the turnout of 79,4% indicates
a genuine commitment to participate in elections. Voting and counting were
well conducted in the polling stations observed.
The
legal framework for elections provided a level playing field for contestants.
The Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB) did a remarkable job in a country
complicated by geography, but both parties commented that at times the
ECB was overly severe in its application of the campaign regulations. Only
candidates were allowed to campaign, and they were also prevented from
discussing citizenship and security clearance issues, while many voters,
particularly in the Southern areas, wanted to discuss them.
Both
BBS TV and Radio gave equal access to all candidates in a very regulated
manner in their election programs, and media has in general treated candidates
equally.
"A
final report containing detailed recommendations for the future will be
published within two months of the completion of the entire process,"Pomés
added.
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Source:
EU Election Observation Mission, Bhutan, March 2008 |
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