Statement of IRI’s Pre-Election Assessment Mission

International Republican Institute (IRI, Washington, DC)

03 March 2011

Statement of IRI’s Pre-Election Assessment Mission

Summary

The International Republican Institute’s Assessment Team, led by former Ghana President, the Honorable John Kufuor,  reports that Nigerians are hopeful for credible elections in April despite continuing challenges (see attached press statement).  Other members on the team include:  IRI Vice President Dan Fisk; Kimani Martin Mbugua, Africa Director Atlantic Center, D.C.; Charles Lasham, former Nigeria/IFES Director; Julien Gauze (NDI delegate) .    Over the last week the team met with INEC officials; civil society organizations; political parties; women, youth and people with disabilities organizations; National Assembly members; religious leaders, and development partners to assess elections preparedness, voter registration, and logistical and elections planning for the upcoming elections.    The press release states:  Nigeria’s elections are critical to the future well-being of this nation as well as of great importance to the continent of Africa and especially the sub-region of West Africa.

(Full statement available for download)