Local observer group expresses concern over delayed election results

By Julius N. Uma

April 25, 2010 (KAMPALA) — The apparent delays by the National Elections Commission (NEC) to release officials results of Sudan’s general elections is already raising skepticism over the transparency of the entire process.

Already, Sudan Domestic Election Monitoring and Observation Programme (SuDEMOP) has expressed stern concern over the matter, calling upon sectors of the civil society and the international community to intervene in the process aimed at the “democratization” of Sudan.

In a press statement issued yesterday, SuDEMOP said it was keen to see and realize the logical conclusion of this landmark election, describing it as a milestone in the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).

According to the local observer group, a delay in completing the much anticipated elections process was likely to cause anxiety and animosity among political parties.

“SuDEMOP wishes to remind the NEC that the Sudan General Election is of national and international significance hence we wish to draw attention of all stakeholders in the CPA and the international community to critically consider the impact of this delay on the referendum calendar,” its statement partly reads.

In essence, however, the local observer group appealed to the existing Southern Sudanese decision making organs to consider the immediate formation of the referendum commission; an entity it says could act as a safe haven for the successful conduct of next year’s referendum.

Meanwhile, Sudan Tribune has also learnt that Médecins sans Frontières (MSF), has mobilised a medical team to evacuate three Unity State patients suffering from gunshot wounds, following an appeal from the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Bentiu, Unity State, Southern Sudan,.

MSF’s intervention came in the wake of a reported shooting incident, which occurred in Unity State after supporters, Angelina Teny, the independent candidate for the Governorship clashed their counterparts loyal to the caretaker Governor Taban Deng.

“Our surgical teams have been on standby in Southern Sudan for eventualities such as these.” said Ross Duffy, MSF Head of Mission, adding that, “It was fortunate for these patients that we had a plane in the vicinity and were able to respond quickly. Our surgical and logistical teams, in collaboration with the MoH, remain prepared to respond to any emergencies.”

In recent weeks, however, MSF has reportedly strengthened its existing surgical capacity with additional surgeons and anaesthetists as well as pre-positioning surgical equipment and materials in key locations.

(ST)