DEMGROUP commends Electoral Commission
Feb 04, 2011
THE Democracy monitoring Group (DEMGroup) has commended the electoral commission for working fast to produce and have the ballot papers in the country for the February 18 elections.
By Barbara Among
THE Democracy monitoring Group (DEMGroup) has commended the electoral commission for working fast to produce and have the ballot papers in the country for the February 18 elections.
“This is a sign of commitment to ensure that the elections are held as scheduled. DEMGroup also commends the electoral commission for involving the political parties and other stakeholders in the procuring process of the ballot papers,†the group said in a press statement released on Thursaday.
It said the level of transparency exhibited by the electoral commission is what the public has for long been yearning for. It urged the commission to continue doing this even when undertaking other activities and processes.
DEMGroup, however, expressed concern over the reports that over 300 ballot papers meant for youth elections were allegedly stolen in Kamuli district.
“This is a serious matter which must be addressed immediately,†it said.
The Group said it was particularly concerned that this incident happened just a few days before the general elections.
“The incident, regrettably, will further erode the confidence that the public had began building with regard to the credibility of the Commission.â€
DEMGroup wants the Commission to come up with a clear explanation on the incident to clear the air and stop the anxiety and suspicions within the public.
“We also urge the electoral commission to step up their security in partnership with the Police to protect the ballot papers.â€
It called on the police to carry out thorough investigations and bring the culprits to book.
THE Democracy monitoring Group (DEMGroup) has commended the electoral commission for working fast to produce and have the ballot papers in the country for the February 18 elections.
“This is a sign of commitment to ensure that the elections are held as scheduled. DEMGroup also commends the electoral commission for involving the political parties and other stakeholders in the procuring process of the ballot papers,†the group said in a press statement released on Thursaday.
It said the level of transparency exhibited by the electoral commission is what the public has for long been yearning for. It urged the commission to continue doing this even when undertaking other activities and processes.
DEMGroup, however, expressed concern over the reports that over 300 ballot papers meant for youth elections were allegedly stolen in Kamuli district.
“This is a serious matter which must be addressed immediately,†it said.
The Group said it was particularly concerned that this incident happened just a few days before the general elections.
“The incident, regrettably, will further erode the confidence that the public had began building with regard to the credibility of the Commission.â€
DEMGroup wants the Commission to come up with a clear explanation on the incident to clear the air and stop the anxiety and suspicions within the public.
“We also urge the electoral commission to step up their security in partnership with the Police to protect the ballot papers.â€
It called on the police to carry out thorough investigations and bring the culprits to book.