OSCE notes mutual mistrust of Armenian government, opposition

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) plans to send 24 long-term and 250 short-term observers to Armenia to monitor upcoming parliamentary polls, Radio Svoboda reports.

The ODIHR has presented a report on needs at parliamentary polls composed on January 30 – February 1.

The ODIHR concluded that reformation of the Electoral Code should not be the only step for democratic processes. The political climate can be characterized by big mistrust between the government and opposition.

Opposition expressed concerns over many administrative violations and pressure on businessmen supporting opposition parties. It also fears violations in electoral lists.

The ODIHR hopes that the Central Electoral Commission would not create barriers for the monitoring mission. The organization also mentioned biased information field of Armenia. It is still unclear how the National Commission for TV and Radio would control public television and radio.