The Group of observers of the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development – GUAM, was invited to the Presidential Elections of the Republic of Azerbaijan, conducted on 15 October 2008. The Group consisted of two members of the Parliament of Georgia, Mr. V. Khukhunaishvili, Mr. A. Suleimanov, representatives of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Mr. G. Shvediuk, Mr. S. Bannykh and Mr. N. Troshin, representatives of the Embassy of Ukraine in Baku Mr. D. Bojok and Mr. A. Danilenko, Secretary General of GUAM Mr. V. Chechelashvili, which headed the Group.
The Group of GUAM observers, based on results of observation in 31 polling stations of all Baku constituencies decided to make the following Statement:
The Presidential elections in the Republic of Azerbaijan were organized and conducted in line with international, including the OSCE and Council of Europe commitments and standards for democratic elections, as well as the national legislation and the rules and procedures elaborated by the Central Election Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
In respect of the overall electoral process, organization of the elections and the activity of the commissions of the polling stations the Group of GUAM Observers has no substantial remarks. The elections took place in a genuinely competitive environment and in general could be assessed positively – as free and fair.
Baky, 16 October 2008
