JOINT DEMARCHE ON ELECTORAL CODE

UNCLAS BUJUMBURA 000444 E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KDEM PGOV BY SUBJECT: JOINT DEMARCHE ON ELECTORAL CODE ¶1. The following text was presented to the heads of the principal political parties August 29 as part of a diplomatic effort to encourage Burundian consensus on an Electoral Code for the 2010 elections. Post will provide further details in septel. ¶2. BEGIN TEXT. Common demarche from South Africa, Tanzania, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations We have followed the consultative process that brought about a CENI that now seems to enjoy the legitimacy and trust of the main stakeholders. We also followed with equal interest the process that culminated in a draft electoral law which, despite initial difficulties, seemed to have ironed out the main points of contention. That text was subsequently transmitted to the Parliament. We have been hearing since then that there may be a breakdown in the consensus that made that compromise text possible. We came to see you as representatives of the international community at large to express our concern at what seems to be an unfortunate turn of events. We wish to encourage you individually and collectively to find ways to ensure that the final text enjoys a broad based support. This will enhance its legitimacy and help create a proper legal framework for free, fair and peaceful electoral process. We are not here to offer views or advice on the issues that may be at the origin of the ongoing debate between the main parties. We simply came as your partners who share your commitment to help make the electoral process another milestone in Burundi's endeavor to consolidate peace and democracy. END TEXT. END TEXT. Twining