The Minister of Interior and Decentralization, Mr. Mohamed Ould Maaouya, called the walis wilayas to observe neutrality, accountability and transparency in the forthcoming elections and the provisions relating thereto.

"This meeting comes within the provisions made for the implementation of the commitments given by the High Council of State on the launch of an electoral process in 2009 leading, as soon as possible, to free and transparent elections d a president, "said the minister presiding, Saturday in Nouakchott, the opening of 2-day briefing session for walis.

He added that in this context, it was decided to set up and installation of an Independent National Electoral Commission, the revision of the electoral exceptional and the organization of a referendum and presidential elections in June 2009.

The Minister explained that the provisions to be taken aimed at enabling citizens to obtain the papers necessary for registration on the electoral roll and the enjoyment of their right to vote, to update the electoral roll and to enable citizens to s 'y to register.

"These provisions target those who have recently reached voting age or who have not yet obtained the national identity card or were outside the country during the period of revision of the electoral register in 2007, he said.

Mr. Mohamed Ould Maaouya called on authorities to cooperate with the Independent National Electoral Commission to perform its duties of oversight, control and monitoring all activities. He stressed that the walis, in addition to the above, are responsible for arranging the partial renewal of the Senate in 2009.

Participants in 2 days information held within the framework of the recommendations of the General Meeting on democracy after the presentations that will be taken from the beginning and