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International organizations present action plan on presidential elections in Azerbaijan

30 April 2008 15:54 (UTC +04:00)

â€œWe want democratic, free and independent elections to be held in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan should solve the present problems related to the elections and do its best to create the election atmosphere with equal rights for all political forces. The political forces should have equal access to the media outlets, fort of all to the television. Our organizations are ready to help Azerbaijan on this issue,â€ he said.
Denis Bribosia, Special Representative of the Council of Europe Secretary General in Azerbaijan said that the potential of Azerbaijanâ€™s elections structures should be strengthened.
â€œThis is our wish, and the wish of Azerbaijani government. We plan to hold trainings not only in Baku, but also in the regions,â€ he said.
Denis Bribosia noted that such trainings might reduce the risk of interference with the elections process.
â€œThe members of the elections commissions should be explained what rights they have and what they can not do,â€ he said.
Denis Bribosia said they also planned to help the local observers, who would observe the elections.
â€œWe will also focus on independent and unbiased coverage of the election process in the media. It is very important to hold tele-debates and support media outlets covering the work of the Central Election Commission. The Council of Europe also plans to monitor media outlets,â€ he said.
Denis Bribosia noted that it was necessary for the ordinary voters to come to the poling stations and vote.
â€œThis process should be stimulated. We intend to sponsor special information programs,â€ he said.
The representatives of the international organizations said it was not known how many observers would come to Azerbaijan to observe the elections. They said it would be known after the visit of the assessment commissions.