Press Release

Statement on the Election Reruns From the EUSR and EC Head of Delegation and the United States Ambassador

June 13, 2008

We met today with Ali Ahmeti and Menduh Thaci to discuss the upcoming election re-runs on June 15.  We stressed that Sunday is their chance, and that of their supporters, to repair the damage done by the first round of elections and to contribute to this country's ability to prove it can conduct elections that meet international standards.  Together with government institutions, it is their chance to restore the confidence of the citizens.

We asked the two party leaders to support government efforts to ensure free, fair, and peaceful voting on June 15, and to instruct their employees and contractors, their members and their supporters to avoid engaging in intimidation, fraud, and any other actions that could mar the voting.  We specifically requested that access to polling stations remain open to all who wish to vote and highlighted the need to keep non-voters from gathering within the area around the polls protected by law.  Both leaders assured us of their commitment to a free, fair and peaceful electoral process on June 15, and pledged their support in ensuring that outcome. 

Furthermore, in response to our joint calls for party leaders to send the right political messages to their party followers concerning their conduct and behavior on Sunday 15 June, both leaders confirmed their intention to call on their party activists to refrain from acts of violence and intimidation at polling stations.

We expect both of them to honor their word.