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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman Press Statement

Press Statement by James B. Foley, Deputy Spokesman
February 16, 1999

Niger--Local Government Elections

The local government elections which took place on February 7 in Niger marked a significant step in an ambitious program of decentralization. These elections were also a critical test of the Government’s commitment to the return of civilian democratic rule. We commend the Government for overcoming last minute obstacles and ensuring the safe deployment of international election observers. We are, however, concerned about reported incidents involving security personnel and others who interfered with the work of Niger’s independent electoral commission. We urge that President Bare and his Government ensure the integrity of the vote count, and prosecute anyone who tried to undermine the electoral process.

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