The Independent Election Bureau (OKB) recently expressed concern in response to to several accusations. The chairman of the OKB, Samseerali Sheikh-Alibaks, has also been accused of several things.
The OKB made it clear that it always makes sure that the elections are fair, transparant and in accordance with existing laws and that it never takes sides. Chairman
Sheikh-Alibaks pointed out that the OKB focuses on guaranteeing a fair and transparant election process while sticking to the constitutional and legal rules regarding its task. “The OKB has no political preference and acts in the interest of all of the citizens of Suriname regardless of their political background. Accusations against the OKB, its members and chairman are strongly rejected and condemned,” said the OKB in a press release. The OKB emphasized its role as watchdog of the election process. If it becomes necessary, the OKB will sound the alarm. The OKB is sticking to its claim that big mistakes were made when the lists of candidates were delivered to several main polling stations. Many members of the main polling stations evidently are not aware of the law. The OKB is also being accused of being absent when the lists of candidates were presented to the public in Paramaribo. This is not true. One of the allegations suggests that there are certain irregularities happening within the OKB.” The OKB made it clear that it only uses official documented information and the law. According to the OKB,it remains determined to stick to its mission of keeping the trust of the Surinamese people and expanding it further.