PRESS RELEASE

Contribution to Democratisation

The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina estimates that the September elections were held under more favorable conditions in comparison to all post-war elections.
The main characteristic of these elections is a high degree of safety for voters and respected freedom of movement. Besides, the voting at the biggest number of polling stations passed without any incidents and any pressures over the voters.
Few faults registered during the two days of elections can not significantly effect the results of elections and their democratic character.
The electoral materials were delivered with delay to 107 polling stations this presenting 1.3% of the total number of polling stations. Individual incidents were registered in Zvornik, Banja Luka, Stolac, Bihac. The Helsinki Committee condemns appearing of posters with waw crime suspects. The incompetence of members of voting boards was stated at some polling stations.
The appearance of the voting ballot and the way of voting for the parties, indipendent candidates and coalitions were modified in comparison to the previous practice and they were, to a certain number of voters, making difficulties the consequence of which was that voters were not able to vote.
The Helsinki Committee stresses the importance of publication of results of elections as soon as possible and their verification and timely establishment of newly elected authorities. Estimating these elections positively, the Helsinki Committee states that they present contribution to the democratisation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and affirmation of electoral process.

Sarajevo, 14 September 1998
No. 10A-09/98