BULAKHOV EXPRESSES HOPE FOR THE BEST
Support A1+!Head of CIS Executive Committee Yuri Yarov is planning to arrive in Armenia to observe upcoming presidential elections only after February 15 while the Committee already started its activity. So far 56 observers from eight CIS countries are assigned to observe elections.
Dmitri Bulakhov, Deputy Chair of the Committee anticipates the number of observers to reach 100 soon. Representatives of CIS member country Azerbaijan is expected not to observe the election despite Armenian Central Election Commission’s relevant proposal. Bulakhov avoided direct comment saying Azerbaijan didn’t make a decision yet.
The observation mission representatives met Armenia’s government officials as well as the heads of the electoral teams of three presidential candidates – Robert Kocharyan, Aram Sargssyan and Artashes Geghamyan – within a few days of they staying in the republic.
Dmitri Bulakhov is repeatedly emphasising that they have no intention to comment the event or make any judgement. That’s why questioned about above-mentioned meetings he said briefly: “Some vulnerable points were discussed”.
The observers intend to set a contact with all candidates’ headquarters and visit as many polling stations as possible on the very day of election. They will compose weekly reports while staying in Armenia. Summary statement based on the reports will be made upon election completion.
Bulakhov also said the election process is believed to run in normal environment, as election norms in Armenia are democratic enough and up to international standards.
Noting that journalists reacted anxiously to his words Bulakhov said: “I just expressed a hope for the best and nothing more”.
