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*PRESS RELEASE*
Dated: 10th March, 2008
Camp: Delhi
*We Demand Responsible Action From European Union Observers.*
A team of 15 observers from 13 different European Union countries arrived in the Bhutan to observe the first ever
general election that is scheduled on the 24th of March, 2008. The Druk National Congress welcomes this. But taking into
account the recent remarks of the team, it puts into doubt the effectiveness of the team in observing the happenings in
the backstage that will determine the ultimate outcome of the elections. It is obvious that the process is being
observed only at face value. Further, we apprehend that EU observers will bless Bhutan's general election in spite of
all shortcomings. Mr. Javier Pomes, the Chief of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM), said, "In our
observations so far, most of the processes comply with international standards.".
In fact, he and his team members understand and acknowledge the fact that only two political parties both headed by the
relatives of the King are allowed to function and participate in the political process. Despite the elections being only
two weeks away, fundamental human and democratic rights for the people still does not exist. People are still arrested
for engaging in political activities that does not favour the present regime and its cronies. Large sections of the
population are excluded from the process including the people in exile. Are these practices in compliance with
International standards?
We are aware of the existing democratic practices and traditions prevalent in European Countries. We are therefore,
disheartened to hear such irresponsible remarks. Bhutanese democrats are no different from democrats in European
democratic countries; we too accept a Constitutional Monarchy that is akin to the Constitutional Monarchies in European
countries. Henceforth, we hope that the Team will advise the Bhutan regime to work towards a genuine and inclusive
democracy.
ends