Statement by the Spokesperson on the Presidential elections in Kazakhstan

We take note of the preliminary findings and conclusions of the OSCE/ODIHR International Election Observation Mission on the Presidential elections of the 26 April in Kazakhstan.

According to the Mission, while the election preparations were efficiently administered, all electoral deadlines were met and commissions at all levels were open to observers and media, voters were not offered a genuine choice between political alternatives. There were also significant restrictions to the freedom of expression, as well as to the media environment and undue restrictions on suffrage right. OSCE/ODIHR also highlighted that serious procedural deficiencies and irregularities were noted throughout the voting, counting and tabulation processes.

The European Union underlines the importance of Kazakhstan responding to any recommendations that OSCE/ODIHR final report will contain. Kazakh authorities need to effectively address these shortcomings, as well as other restrictions and irregularities observed by the OSCE/ODIHR. This should be done before the legislative elections in 2016, in order to ensure that they are in line with international standards. Kazakh authorities also need to enhance their efforts to honour their international commitments regarding democratic principles and human rights.

Kazakhstan is a key partner for the EU, and we stand ready to continue our support to the implementation of further reforms to strengthen democracy in Kazakhstan.