OIC Mission: ‘Elections Were Open, Fair & In Line With Laws’

The Deputy Secretary General of Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) Salem al-Ajili al-Hawani was among many observers, who have arrived to participate in the presidential elections of December 23 in Uzbekistan.

Here is what he has said while speaking to the Uzbekistan National News Agency.

“During the elections of President of Uzbekistan we have observed the work of the polling stations in Tashkent and Bukhara provinces, as well as the capital city. The OIC Mission states that the elections were held based on publicity, openness, fairness and in line with the legislation.

One of the main requirements of democracy is the participation of more than one candidate in the elections. At these presidential elections in Uzbekistan the four candidates have been nominated for the post of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. That, in its turn, witnesses about the firm observance of such a principle.

Yet another important condition is to provide for the rights and interests of citizens abroad. In this regard, we can speak of the polling stations that have been established at the diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan in foreign countries. Thus, the citizens that stayed abroad in the day of voting were able to realize their right to vote and it is worth appreciation.

Practical reflection of ensuring the human rights is also another fact that almost five thousand Uzbek citizens, who have offered the holy pilgrimage of Hajj at the sacred places in Saudi Arabia, had voted early prior to their departures. No doubt that the laws of Uzbekistan, the state policy, which fully meets the national values and universal principles, will serve to the bright future of the country.

The presidential elections in Uzbekistan have demonstrated to the world community to what extent the level of political and legal culture of the Uzbek people is high.