A series of information sessions for the heads of executive powers and chairpersons of the constituency election commissions on non-interference in the electoral process organized by the OSCE Office in Baku in co-operation with the Presidential Administration and the Central Election Commission (CEC) has begun today.
Ambassador Bilge Cankorel, the Head of the OSCE Office in Baku, in his opening remarks at today's session said accomplishments achieved were reflected in the report the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights election observation mission prepared on the elections in Azerbaijan.
Chief of the Presidential Administration` socio-political department Ali Hasanov underlined the event is important for improvement of election practice, shaping active election environment in the society. According to him, the primary task of local authorities is to create conditions for the conduct of elections, adding build-up to the election is an integral part of election.
CEC Chairman Mazahir Panahov noted both the CEC and international organizations and respective structures stepped up their activity to prepare for the parliamentary election.
The sessions will outline the basic principles of democratic elections and the provisions on non-interference in Azerbaijan's Electoral Code, clarify the role of the executive authorities, and emphasize the independence and responsibilities of the election commissions. Information sessions will also be organized in Shirvan (21 September), Mingachevir (22 September) and Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (24 September), well in advance of the 7 November parliamentary elections.
The sessions will address in particular the interference of local executive authorities in the registration of candidates and the voting process that reportedly took place during the 2009 Municipal Election.

AzerTAc