II ~I ~ ~II~ ~~ ~II ~ ~II - IFES

IFES Pre-electionAssessment:Burundicomprehensive, presenting a step-by-step methodology including sketches as required. It isimportant that this Guide be prepared based on the election legislation which will be producedshortly by the Government of Burundi. Techncial assistance provided in this area shouldremain sensitive and focused on the objective of developing a specifically Burundian electionguide.CommunicationThe IFES Team feels that consideration should be given to assistance in completing a nationalcommunications system that would complement the existing system so that communication andreporting of election results could be made for efficiently and quickly.TechnologyVery little in the way of computers and other high technology exists in Burundi. The requestfor assistance in this field, if responded to by international donors, must combine the neededequipment with training. The most useful first step in this area, in the opinion of the team,would be to consider setting up an computerized election result counting system in Bujumbura.TransportationThe request for assistance with the purchase of new vehicles was discussed at some length withthe Minister of·Interior and his officials. The team felt that the request for 121 vehicles wasperhaps larger than what is necessary. With enough lead time for planning, the need forvehicles can be modified and perhaps consideration be given to rentals for the election period.Consideration must also be given to the fuel, maintenance and spare parts needs of anyincreased vehicle use in connection with the administration of elections.40