EU observer Mission signs MOU with NEC for 2012 elections

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The Head of European Union (EU) in Sierra Leone, Jean Perrie Raymondel, accompanied by the Head of Political, Press and Information Section of the EU Jaschke Lothar, yesterday entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chairperson of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), Madam Christiana Thorpe on the EU Code of conduct for the 2012 multi-tier elections. The brief ceremony which took place at the office of NEC’s Chairperson attracted the attendance of all Regional Commissioners of the electoral commission based on the understanding that international observation of the electoral process will add credibility to the process, especially when the pending multi-tier electoral process is a novelty to the country and its people. NEC’s Chairperson Christiana Thorpe considered the ceremony “very important” as it is geared towards formalizing the purpose of the EU observer mission for the November 17th elections. She expressed gratitude for EU opting to participate in the country’s electoral process as, she said, “international observation adds credibility to the electoral process”. Jean Perrie Raymondel who serves as Ambassador said that undertaking the venture to observe the electoral process in the country is behind the backdrop of the strong diplomatic tie between Sierra Leone and countries of the European Union. He said that their participation could also boost confidence in stakeholders of the election, and further contribute to acceptable outcome thereby promoting peace and development in the country. He mentioned that the team will constitute a chief observer whose effort will be complimented by an addition of fifty short-term observers. The MOU, according to the Head of Political, Press and Information Section has attachments that include international electoral laws and guidance, working in accordance with international best practices. Commissioner Mattia of NEC said that it was essential to witness the participation of foreign observers in a bid to foster public confidence and acceptability of the outcome of the process. He observed that it was as a result of international observation of the 2007 electoral process that certain flaws were able to be identified by the commission. By Poindexter Sama

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