Montenegro's failed presidential election marred by opposition boycott and pressure on state employees

PODGORICA, 10 February 2003 - Yesterday's repeat presidential election in Montenegro was marred by the opposition's continuing boycott, as well as by pressure on state employees to vote. However, the international observer mission deployed by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) also concluded that the administration of the election was generally in line with international standards. For the second time within six weeks, the attempt to elect a new President failed due to insufficient voter turnout.

"While we regret the opposition's boycott limiting voters' choice, we equally deplore attempts by supporters of the leading candidate to increase turnout by pressuring state employees to vote", said Nikolai Vulchanov, the head of the ODIHR's 65-member observer mission.

In a statement issued today (attached), the observer mission repeated its call for abolishing legal provisions allowing for endless cycles of unsuccessful elections. "These provisions, which are unique to Serbia and Montenegro within the OSCE region, must be changed before the next presidential vote is scheduled", Mr. Vulchanov stressed.

The mission commended the election administration for its efficient and transparent work, and reported that election day passed without major irregularities.