EAST TIMOR: MAKE VOTE DEMOCRATIC, U.N. ENVOY URGES

New York, 13 June (AKI) - With campaigning for East Timor's parliamentary elections in full swing, the senior United Nations envoy to the country called on all concerned to ensure a democratic process. "It is important that campaign messages be delivered freely, fairly and without violence or intimidation or misuse of state resources," said Atul Khare in a news release. So far, only four of the more than 150 campaign activities held across East Timor, by the 16 political parties have been marred by violent incidents, according to the UN Integrated Mission there (UNMIT).

Khare stressed that the 30 June elections should have a restorative and unifying impact and must not lead to divisiveness.

In view of a number of security incidents that occurred during this campaigning period, the Special Representative reminded all political players that justice and the rule of law will be upheld.

"Those who break the law and use political campaigning as an opportunity to indulge in criminal activity will continue to be dealt with swiftly by police" Khare said.

UNMIT is mandated by the Security Council to support East Timor in all aspects of the 2007 presidential and parliamentary electoral process.

(Rar/Aki)

Jun-13-07 10:37