US expresses concern over election process in Bosnia

NEWS 09.10.201809:38
REUTERS/Larry Downing

The US State Department said it was worried about the general election process in Bosnia, on Sunday, thus joining the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), international observers and local non-governmental organisations, the Beta news agency reported late on Monday.

The concerns refer to the accuracy of the voter registration rolls, impartiality of election observers, equitable access to media and misuse of public resources. 

“Such concerns are at odds with Bosnian authorities’ stated commitment to a fully fair and transparent election, and we encourage Bosnian institutions to address shortcomings raised by the OSCE observers,” the State Department said.

The United States commends the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina for their participation in the general elections adding that the country remains committed to the goal of a stable and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“We expect all stakeholders and citizens to pursue any grievances through established legal channels, and we encourage all political leaders to be magnanimous in victory and gracious in defeat”, the statement said.