The Carter Center reported that although the voter registration for the referendum faced several logistical, procedural, and security challenges, the process was generally credible and represented a strong step toward the successful conduct of the referendum.
Carter Center observers reported that referendum centres generally opened on time and had appropriate materials across Northern and Southern Sudan, and eligible voters had adequate opportunities to register.The Center said the Referendum Commission and Bureau worked hard to support the smooth operations and timely opening of registration centres, with officials responding appropriately to most of the challenges that arose during the registration period.
The Center added that in the majority of locations, registration was conducted in a peaceful environment, and exceptions of security incidents took place in Akobo and Kiir Adem in Southern Sudan.
Carter Center observers also noted a few isolated incidents of intimidation, but did not report any systematic attempts to undermine the process.