Presence of Third Parties Noted at Two Polling Stations: 'Witness' Observational Mission

The 'Witness' observational mission has presented its findings from the polling stations:

During the preparatory phase of voting (07:00 - 08:00), the process of preparing the polling locations and their opening was generally organized in accordance with established procedures, without major violations, in 30 monitored polling stations. No obstacles were recorded for the entry of 'Witness' observers into the electoral precincts.

However, the presence of third parties was noted at two stations. At polling station 4/34, the head of a party's campaign office approached a member of the Territorial Electoral Commission (TEC) and spoke with them, but was removed from the polling station one minute later at the recommendation of the observer. At polling station 2/40, a third party was also present, who spoke with the chair of the TEC and then entered the voting room together, continuing to discuss technical equipment.

When asked by the observer who that person was and whether they had the right to be in the voting room, the chair of the TEC responded that they were a prosecutor’s bodyguard and were inquiring about the voting procedure.

Two incidents were recorded at polling stations 6/3 and 10/43, where a non-combustible storage was already open before the TEC's 07:00 meeting, with police participation.

Of the monitored polling stations, 17 were assessed as difficult to access for voters with mobility issues. Some stations also faced challenges with furnishing and ensuring the secrecy of voting, primarily due to poorly chosen locations for the polling station and/or voting room.

Generally, the polling stations opened on time for voters. For citizens reporting issues, the platform iditord.org/elections is available.