Elections in Sudan more credible than those in Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia or Rwanda

An observer's plausible assessment of the recent elections in Sudan. The following comments are of particular interest because of who is making them: Dave Peterson, the Senior Director of the Africa program at the National Endowment for Democracy in Washington DC. He writes:

"The elections were by no means a wasted effort. They did not make Sudan a democracy, but they did increase democratic space significantly, and they did provide a trial run for the referendum and for future elections that might be more democratic. As Sudanese often reminded us, they have had the experience of democratic elections on a least four occasions since independence, none of which were challenged or required international observers. They also insisted that Sudan should not be held to some lower standard of elections, and the Carter Center rightfully assessed these elections as not being up to international standards. Nevertheless, in judging Sudan, it is fair to say their elections were much better organized and more credible than any of the last three held in Nigeria, which I’ve observed, and were much freer and more fair than the upcoming elections in Ethiopia, Rwanda, or Egypt – all American allies – are likely to be. Although not all of Sudan’s repressive legislation has been removed, and instances of press censorship or harassment of opposition still occur, there is nevertheless a much greater amount of freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, civil society activism, open criticism of the government, debate, and understanding of democracy and human rights than has existed in the past 20 years. In the aftermath of the elections, and in the post-referendum era, these gains must be preserved and built upon. Northerners are particularly concerned that the NCP will consolidate its power and return to its repressive ways in the absence of international attention. Likewise, in the south, the SPLM’s dominance and worrisome signs of corruption, authoritarianism and intolerance must be discouraged. Independence will not necessarily mean freedom."