The Catholic auxiliary bishop of Khartoum expressed concern that allegations over polls malpractices could stir up political disagreement and impede progress towards democracy.
Bishop Daniel Adwok Kur told the Catholic Charity Aid to the Church in Need that alleged electoral malpractices and last minute withdrawal of candidates has shaken the confidence of voters in Sudan.Bishop Adwok quoted reports that speak of voter intimidation, poor organization of electoral ballots and stations and vote rigging by the National Congress Party.
He added that the reports of irregularities make one wonder whether in the end the elections will qualify to be called free and fair.
Bishop Adwok said the withdrawal of candidates represents a lack of politicians willing to promote a vision of Sudan which is multi-cultural, multi-lingual, multi-racial, multi-ethnic and multi-religious as the interim constitution states.
He added that the SPLM pull out left voters, including Christians, confused.
Bishop Adwok concluded that this election were a test ahead of the 2011 referendum.