Observers from the Sudanese Network for Democratic Elections (SuNDE) were today removed by security personnel from polling stations in Hai Jalaba, Youth Trading Centre, and Saint Theresa in Juba.
In a press statement Edmond Yakani, SuNDE Coordinator, noted that the trend started yesterday, with the arrest of 19 domestic observers by unknown security personnel.One observer was assaulted by the security forces.
Security personnel told SuNDE staff that they were ordered to remove all domestic observers from polling stations.
The statement added that the security forces entered the polling stations without authorization from officials in violation of the rules and procedures set forth by the National Election Commission.
SuNDE stated that these incidents obstruct the right to observe the electoral process.
SuNDE encourages election officials and other law enforcement agencies to investigate the incidents and hold accountable those responsible.