BAKU: Daniela de Ridder, the Head of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (PA) mission, expressed admiration at the robust voter turnout witnessed during the presidential election in Azerbaijan, while overseeing proceedings at the 26th polling station of the 23rd electoral district organized at the Azerbaijan University of Languages.
De Ridder, accompanied by other parliamentarians, commended the active participation of voters in the electoral process, noting the smooth conduct of voting operations thus far. She highlighted the overcrowding observed at some polling stations, indicating a significant level of public engagement.
Artur Gerasimov, the OSCE Special Coordinator, reported that over 300 observers from the OSCE mission are deployed across Azerbaijan to monitor the extraordinary presidential elections. These observers are dispersed throughout the country, monitoring the election process in various regions, including Baku, Sumgait, and Nakhchivan.
Polling for Azerbaijan Presidential Election
Gerasimov reiterated the mission’s commitment to assessing the election organization in line with the standards outlined in the 1990 Copenhagen Document. He underscored the thorough preparation of all observers and their dedication to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
Today marks the presidential elections in Azerbaijan, with seven candidates vying for the presidency. A total of 6,478,623 voters are listed on the voter rolls, distributed across 6,537 polling stations nationwide.
The election has garnered significant international interest, with 90,372 observers registered to monitor the proceedings. Among them, 790 represent 72 international organizations from 89 countries. The election coverage extends across the entirety of Azerbaijan, including territories liberated from occupation, where 26 polling stations have been established.
Additionally, 49 polling stations have been set up in embassies and consulates abroad, allowing over 23,000 expatriate voters to participate in the electoral process.
A significant presence of 190 international media organizations, with 216 registered representatives as international observers, further emphasizes the global attention on Azerbaijan’s presidential elections.
On the day of voting, provisions are made for voters unable to reach polling stations, ensuring their right to vote is facilitated in accordance with the Electoral Code.
