NEWS RELEASES
OUELLET URGES SIERRA LEONE TO HOLD ITS ELECTIONS
January 24, 1996 No. 11
OUELLET URGES SIERRA LEONE TO HOLD ITS ELECTIONS
Foreign Affairs Minister André Ouellet today underlined the importance of
Presidential and legislative elections being held as planned in Sierra Leone on
February 26, despite the coup d'état of January 16.
"The people of Sierra Leone are counting on these elections, the first in a
generation, to establish democracy and political stability in their country. It
is important that Sierra Leone continue to follow the democratic course it has set
for itself," said Mr. Ouellet.
In early January, under its Election Assistance Program, Canada sent an expert to
help Sierra Leone set up and administer fair and open elections. Information
workshops were also held by Canada to inform the voters of the terms and
conditions of the vote and of their rights.
Mr. Ouellet added that by virtue of its membership in the Commonwealth, Sierra
Leone, like all members, is obliged to respect and safeguard fundamental values
such as human rights, democracy and human development.
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