High Representative Christian Schmidt wrote a letter to chief prosecutors on all judiciary levels in Bosnia and Herzegovina today, regarding the preparations for the upcoming Election Day on October 2.
“Free and fair elections are of course a foundation of democracy. All citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina must be able to exercise their democratic rights in such free, fair and democratic elections and consequently such citizens’ right to vote must be protected.
Possible abuses in the electoral process corrupt the legitimacy of elections and encourage public distrust in the electoral process. Therefore such abuses need to be addressed seriously and expeditiously and there should be accountability for such acts.
That is why Bosnia and Herzegovina needs the resolute determination of all its institutions to prevent such abuses, and in case of their possible occurrence, the determination and preparedness of its judiciary and law enforcement to ensure that those responsible for any fraudulent electoral conduct will be detected and sanctioned. The integrity of elections needs to be preserved.
I am sure that you take all your responsibilities very seriously and that you have ensured the conditions to detect possible offences, as well as for citizens to feel free and comfortable to report a behavior perceived as illegal which shall encounter your swift action. It is crucial that the judiciary and law enforcement react swiftly to possible illegalities.
Rest assured that you have all my appreciation and support in your fight against criminality,” wrote the High Representative.