Brussels, 06/04/2010 (Agence Europe) - In response to a request by Khartoum, the European Union will monitor the Sudanese general elections planned for 11-13 April. The EU electoral observation mission is led by Véronique de Keyser MEP (S&D, Belgium). Six MEPs led by Ana Gomes (S&D, Portugal) will take part in the mission on 8-15 April. Ana Gomes stated on Tuesday 6 April that “these elections are taking place at a crucial moment for Sudan. They precede a possible referendum in 2011 that, under the terms of the 2005 Naivasha Agreement, will decide upon the future of the country”.
On Friday 9 and Saturday 10 April, the MEPs will meet representatives and candidates from the political parties, the president of the Central Electoral Commission, as well as national and international observers and officials. (A.N./transl.fl)