OSCE: Political obstruction of elections undermines democracy in BiH

The comments were made in response to the CEC BiH’s recent decision to revoke the mandate of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik.

The OSCE Mission reminded that such decisions are subject to complaints and appeals, as provided by the Election Law of BiH, and that competent judicial institutions are responsible for handling them within the legally prescribed timeframes and in accordance with the law.

The Mission called on election officials at all levels to carry out their professional duties "independently and without political interference."

“We also call on all political officials to respect the decisions of the Central Election Commission of BiH and the relevant judicial institutions,” the Mission added.

In response to FENA's inquiry about potential destabilisation of the security and political situation in BiH if there are obstructions to holding early elections for a new RS president, the OSCE Mission stated that any attempt to obstruct or prevent the holding of early elections would constitute a direct violation of the rule of law and democratic principles.

In this context, the OSCE Mission reaffirmed that, within its mandate, it will continue to monitor activities related to the electoral process and provide support to the electoral administration to enhance the integrity of elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina.