Ecowas observers say Niger elections free

LAGOS – Observers from West African bloc Ecowas said yesterday that this week’s presidential and legislative elections in Niger to bring an end to military rule were free and transparent.

‘The mission considers that the insufficiencies observed did not hinder the free expression of the citizens of Niger during the voting process,’ a statement labeled a ‘preliminary declaration’ said.’Consequently, the mission considers that the legislative and presidential elections of the 31st January 2011 took place in an atmosphere of calm and transparency.’A French version of the statement also said the vote was held in an atmosphere of ‘freedom.’The military in Niger seized power last year to end a crisis triggered by ex-president Mamadou Tandja’s attempts to extend his rule beyond the constitutional limits.Military leader Salou Djibo vowed to return the country to civilian rule and no junta member was up for election.Niger’s electoral commission said on Tuesday that roughly 50 per cent of 6.7 million registered voters cast ballots.The winner will have the task of leading one of the world’s top uranium producers out from under the shadow of the growing threat of al Qaeda-linked militants.The observer team from the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) was led by former Togo prime minister Koffi Sama. It included 100 members, with teams deployed throughout the country. – Nampa-AFP