United Nations Radio

The United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) has denied being involved in granting contracts to print inside Sudan ballots for next month's general elections.

UNMIS says it regrets news reports attributed to the Umma Reform and Renewal Party suggesting that its Chief Electoral Affairs Officer has been involved in this process.

The UN mission has categorically dismissed the allegation as unfounded, pointing out that the decision to print ballots inside Sudan was taken by the National Election Commission (NEC) on its own initiative.

The NEC subsequently communicated that decision to the mission and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

UNMIS says its Chief Electoral Affairs Officer recommended to the NEC that arrangements should be put in place to ensure that non-partisan observers and party agents are able to observe and ensure the integrity of this printing process inside Sudan.

UNMIS reiterates that the role of the mission and its Electoral Assistance Division is restricted to providing technical assistance and limited logistical support when requested to do so.

Any substantive decisions about any aspect of the electoral process are the responsibility of the National Election Commission and other stakeholders.

Diane Bailey, United Nations
Duration: 1'23"