A delegation of the CE Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, which conducted an observer mission at the municipal elections in Azerbaijan, expressed its disappointment at the election process.

At a press conference in Baku the delegation members enumerated the major shortcomings of the election campaign. Vice-President of the Congress Jean-Claude Frécon stated that the elections went off unnoticed by either TV or in the streets.

The delegation visited more than 100 polling stations. The Congress Vice-President pointed out the delegation’s regret over the passive campaign, which does not contribute to democratic development. The delegation raised the issue at their meetings in the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan – the election campaign did not receive wide TV coverage. Also, the opposition political forces were not represented in the elections, and their activities did not receive proper media coverage either.

The third point is democratic local government bodies. They do not have sufficient funding and powers. In this context Jean-Claude Frécon called for improving the situation.

On the other hand, the delegation members pointed out a much higher technical level of the election campaign. Specifically, they called on the authorities to improve the form of ballot papers. As to the voter turnout, 32% is a low figure.

The delegation members also expressed their regret that they could not meet with opposition representatives.

The final monitoring results ill be discussed on January 15, 2010.

T.P.