WASHINGTON , DC – The National Democratic Institute (NDI) calls upon all parties in Yemen to work together to overcome the current impasse over the election law and election administration to ensure that the people of Yemen can experience well-managed and representative multi-party elections in 2009. 

The 2009 parliamentary elections should be conducted in a manner that continues the many positive steps made during the conduct of the 2006 presidential and local council elections. However, the Institute is concerned that the current political tensions have made reaching consensus on crucial election issues difficult. Without broad agreement on the rules and procedures governing the election, Yemen could experience a political setback with unfortunate consequences for all Yemenis. 

"The current tensions and challenges surrounding voter registration do not bode well for the process going forward. Rather, they underscore the need for the parties to come together to seek a consensus compromise so the elections can proceed as smoothly as possible and contribute positively to Yemen's democratic development," said Les Campbell, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at NDI.

NDI reaffirms that it is incumbent on all political parties to work collaboratively to reach a mutually agreeable resolution to the current impasse. As the parties seek to strengthen democracy in Yemen, they should honor the spirit of prior agreements and not become entrenched in partisan demands that might undermine the electoral process.

If the parties are unable to reach consensus and resolve the current impasse in a timely manner, then the government of Yemen should be open to considering a delay of the elections, in accordance with Yemen law and regulations.

Mr. Campbell stated earlier today, "Yemen has been grappling with the challenges of making democratic progress over the last dozen years. If it takes a bit more time to establish consensus rules and administration for the 2009 elections, it is worth taking that time, consistent with Yemeni law, so that these elections can be seen as a positive step and not a setback." 

Since 1993, NDI has been a partner in Yemen’s democratic development. The Institute continues to work in support of Yemen’s pursuit of multi-party democracy and its efforts to build on Yemen’s considerable accomplishments in the sphere of political reform. 

The National Democratic Institute is a non-profit organization working to strengthen and expand democracy worldwide. NDI works with democrats in every region of the world to build political and civic organizations, safeguard elections, and promote citizen participation, openness, and accountability in government.

Contact: Leigh Catherine Miles - 967 1 427 519/20

           Matthew Frumin - +1 202 728 6347