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THREE-MEMBER OAS ELECTORAL OBSERVER MISSION
ARRIVES IN GUYANA TODAY

  May 11, 2006

A team of Organization of American States (OAS) election observers arrives in Guyana today, marking the start of a long-term OAS Electoral Observation Mission to that country. The Organization is sending the observers at the request of the government.

The three-member mission consists of St. Kitts and Nevis national Eugene G. Petty, a former Elections Supervisor and frequent election observer; Canadian Ann Fudge, a Provincial Returning Officer for Elections in Ontario; and Steven Griner, Senior Specialist in the OAS Department for the Promotion of Democracy. Both Petty and Fudge will remain in Guyana for the duration of the electoral process that will culminate in general and regional elections, dates for which have not yet been announced.

“This mission represents the commitment of the OAS to the electoral process in Guyana,” declared OAS Assistant Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin, noting that this particular three-member team is a technical mission.

Ramdin explained that the OAS long-term mission will observe the “claims and objections period” as well, and that the Organization will continue to closely monitor preparations for the elections.

“Elections are an important element for strengthening democracy, and in this context, we look forward to the announcement of a date for elections,” said Ambassador Ramdin.

Reference: E-115/06