Read the full preliminary statement (PDF):
In English
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CONTACTS: Atlanta, Deborah Hakes +1 404 420 5124; Cairo, Sanne van den Bergh +20 1013511710
Carterdeployed witnesses to observe two days of polling on Nov. 28-29 in the first of three rounds of Egypt's parliamentary elections, as well as the preceding election preparation period. Carter Center witnesses visited more than 300 polling stations in all nine active governorates, and followed the process through to the counting exercise.
"Carter Center witnesses in Egypt reported enthusiastic participation in the election and a largely peaceful process, for which the Egyptian people should be proud," former U.S. President Jimmy Carter said. "However, the process is far from complete, and there are several areas for improvement before the next two rounds of voting. We hope that steps can be taken to help ensure the integrity and transparency of these elections."
Despite long lines, late poll openings, and other indicators of under-preparation evident in some polling stations and counting centers, Carter Center witnesses reported that Egyptian citizens displayed optimism and participated in large numbers. Candidates, parties and their representatives, and election officials also appeared eager to participate and to demonstrate their commitment to a democratic transition. Egypt's voters and other political stakeholders in general warmly received Carter Center witnesses, a sentiment that was deeply appreciated.
Carternotes the deep skepticism of activists in Tahrir and in other parts of the country about the value of these elections, however, and so urges Egyptian authorities to ensure that the parliamentary elections will result in a more transparent, inclusive and participatory transition process, and a parliament with genuine authority to select the Constitutional Assembly.
At this time, Cartercannot offer a comprehensive assessment of the electoral process. There remain two further rounds of voting, run-off elections and the resolution of any complaints. In the interim, the Center offers the following preliminary observations and suggestions for the next rounds of voting.
These observations include:
The full preliminary statement may be found at www.cartercenter.org.
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