aaus-list @ ukrainianstudies.org -- [aaus-list] Ukrainian Elections (fwd)

[Max Pyziur <pyz@brama.com>]

fyi,


Max Pyziur
pyz@brama.com

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Thu, 14 Oct 2004 10:11:43 -0400
From: statelists@STATE.GOV
To: DOSPRESS@LISTS.STATE.GOV
Subject: Ukrainian Elections

   Press Statement
   Richard Boucher, Spokesman
   Washington, DC
   October 14, 2004



   Ukrainian Elections


   The 2004 presidential election represents one of the most important events in
   Ukraine since independence. How the campaign, voting, and vote tabulation are
   conducted will determine the democratic credentials of Ukraine's next
   president. Whether Ukrainians are allowed to exercise their right to a free and
   fair election and have their free expression of political will respected will
   significantly influence Ukraine's strategic course for the next decade.

   This election offers Ukraine the opportunity to accelerate its development as a
   secure, independent, democratic, and prosperous country that integrates with
   European and Euro-Atlantic institutions, respects human rights and the rule of
   law, maintains mutually beneficial relations with its neighbors, and helps
   strengthen international peace and security.

   We are deeply disappointed that the campaign to date has fallen short of
   international standards. The disruption of opposition rallies, muzzling of
   independent media, misuse of "administrative resources," and other serious
   violations cast doubt on the Ukrainian government's commitment to its
   democratic obligations.

   We urge the Ukrainian authorities to end immediately the ongoing violations of
   democratic norms, to allow Ukrainians to choose freely, and to adhere
   scrupulously to internationally accepted standards for tabulating and
   registering results on election day. We further urge that observers, both
   domestic and international, be granted full access to the campaign and
   election-day processes.

   We remain committed to support Ukraine's future as part of the Euro-Atlantic
   community. We are prepared to work closely with any candidate who wins in a
   free and fair contest. We are also prepared to move forward quickly on many
   issues of importance to Ukraine. At the same time, if the election does fail to
   meet democratic standards, it would be unrealistic for Ukraine to expect
   realization of these aspirations. We would also need to reexamine our
   relationship with those who engaged in election fraud and manipulation.

   We urge Ukrainians to seize the opportunity presented by the election to
   strengthen their nation's rightful place in the community of democratic
   nations. Ukrainians deserve to choose freely   and have their choice respected.
   2004/1105
                                         ###

   [End]

   Released on October 14, 2004

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