OSCE/ODIHR final report on municipal elections in former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia recommends improvements to electoral code and voter lists

Municipal elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia were efficiently administered, but further efforts are required to address gaps and ambiguities in the electoral code and improve confidence in the voter lists, concludes the final report by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

The report, which was released on 9 July 2013, notes that the elections were highly competitive. However, partisan media coverage and a blurring of state and party activities did not provide a level playing field for candidates to contest the elections. It recommends that authorities show greater political will to ensure sufficient separation between state and party.

The report also recommends that the electoral code be amended to address the lack of detail on key issues concerning voter registration, candidate registration, campaigning, campaign finance and media coverage. Election legislation should also provide a clear and detailed process for electoral contestants and voters to lodge complaints and appeals, the report adds. It emphasizes that reform should be inclusive and completed well in advance of the next elections.

Consideration should also be given to conducting a review of the procedures for compiling and maintaining voter lists. The report notes that clear, co-ordinated and transparent procedures would enhance the accuracy of the voter lists and contribute to public confidence.

Among the report’s other recommendations are that authorities should properly investigate allegations of voter intimidation and take appropriate actions should any violations be proven.