Kyrgyzstan presidential candidates sign OSCE-supported election code of conduct
Eight presidential candidates in Kyrgyzstan today signed a Code of Conduct for Elections that was developed with the support of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.
The Code of Conduct outlines principles for candidates’ behaviour during the campaign ahead of the 30 October presidential election. The Code was elaborated with assistance from the OSCE Centre in Bishkek in co-operation with the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, the International Republican Institute and the OSCE-supported non-governmental organization the Parliament of Political Parties.
The Code calls for candidates to commit themselves to conducting campaigns in “a climate of democratic tolerance in which political activity can take place in compliance with the laws, with respect for the opponents’ supporters and candidates”.
It outlines a number of prohibited activities, including bribing or threatening voters as a means of gaining their support; distributing weapons, alcohol and drugs at political meetings; as well as using language which potentially incites social, religious, racial and ethnic hatred.
“The forthcoming presidential election is crucial for the stable future of Kyrgyzstan. The code of conduct signed by the presidential candidates today will contribute to a fair and transparent election and will allow the people of Kyrgyzstan to vote freely in accordance with their preferences and beliefs,” said Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.
Emilbek Kaptagaev, the Chief of the Presidential Administration said: “The signing of the Code of Conduct is symbolically important. We have a chance to form efficient state governance and to establish a tradition for the legitimate transfer of presidential power. The candidates, signing the Code, demonstrate that they recognize their responsibility before the people and the country.”
Roza Aknazarova, the Chair of the Parliament of Political Parties NGO, said: “The Code of Conduct will promote a free and transparent presidential election in compliance with democratic principles and international standards. It will be a stabilizing factor, and its implementation will be closely monitored by civil society and widely covered by media.”
Other candidates continue to have the opportunity to sign up to the Code of Conduct.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
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