EU to observe elections in Tunisia

The European Union is deploying an Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) for the Constituent Assembly elections in Tunisia, scheduled for October 23. The mission, being deployed upon invitation of the Tunisian authorities, will be led by European Parliament Member Michael Gahler, the European Commission said in a statement on Wednesday. These elections represent an historical moment in the transition process of Tunisia towards democracy. For the first time, Tunisian citizens will have the opportunity to freely choose their representatives; the elected Assembly will have the fundamental task of writing the new Constitution of the country. Since the revolution in January, the EU has been extending its full support to the Tunisian people''s aspiration for freedom, democracy and dignity. The EU will continue to support the Tunisian authorities and society, in their path to democracy, in full respect of universal values, the statement added. EU Foreign Policy chief Catherine Ashton wished Michael Gahler and his team "all success in their independent assessment of these important elections." 130 observers will assess pre-election preparations and campaign all over Tunisia, voting, counting and tabulation processes, as well as the post-election period. The first experts arrived in the country on 8 September. This team will be gradually joined by 120 observers. A delegation of 15 Members of the European Parliament will reinforce the mission for the election period. The EOM will issue a preliminary statement after the election day. A comprehensive assessment including recommendations based on factual outcome of the observation will be issued when the electoral process is completed.