Rangoon, Burma – IRI issued the following statement following Burma’s November 8 elections.
“The International Republican Institute congratulates the people of Burma on their historic November 8 elections. With dedication, patience and a firm belief in democracy, millions of voters exercised their right to vote, often under difficult conditions. IRI commends the combined efforts of individuals and institutions in ensuring a peaceful Election Day – from the election workers who performed their important roles with dedication and skill, to the candidates and party agents from all political parties for their participation in this historic process. Finally, there are two sides to every contest and we applaud those who, faced with early indication of their defeat, have conceded with grace.
“Building on this historic election and improving electoral and democratic processes in Burma is vital to ensuring progress towards the realization and consolidation of democracy. In the past three years, IRI’s programming focused on supporting democratic and electoral processes has engaged with more than 200,000 individuals from 340 organizations from political parties to local civil society organizations.
“IRI remains committed to continuing its more than 25 year legacy of providing assistance and looks forward to working with all stakeholders and organizations to strengthen Burma’s democratic processes and institutions.”
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