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

IFES Pre-electionAssessment: BurundiIBurundi authorities engage in dialogue with the various political forces in and outside Burundi.A failure to settle differences among the various political interests will jeopardize thedemocratization process underway and question the legitimacy of Burundi's politicalinstitutions.Other relevant issues that the IFES team feels must be resolved prior to proceeding with theelections in early 1993 are reversing the systematic exclusion of certain political groups fromthe democratic process; addressing the question of refugees both in and outside Burundi;improving Burundi's relations with neighboring countries; and a possible general amnesty.The IFES team recommends that professional assistance be provided so that an honest andreconciliatory dialogue can occur among the country's political forces which have a directimpact on the success or failure of democracy in Burundi.Communication SystemsBurundi has a fairly good communication network. However, not all areas possess acommunication system that provides fast and adequate reporting. Therefore, assistanceprovided in this area should be geared towards completing the existing system's inadequaciesin preparation for the elections.The IFES team recommends that technical assistance be provided to review needs in order toestablish a more efficient reporting system for election purposes that would complement theexisting communication system.TechnologyModem technology is not widely available in Burundi. Although major towns and cities dohave some computer systems, it is not the case in rural areas where electricity is lacking. Inorder to facilitate the communication and reporting of election results, technical, training, and44