FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Kathy Gest, NDI Director of Public Affairs
kgest@ndi.org, 202-728-5535
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Democratic Institute (NDI) has conducted democracy assistance programs in Moldova since 2003. NDI’s programs have focused on sharing international experiences regarding political party development and civic participation. NDI has worked with parties from across the political spectrum, including the ruling and opposition parties.
NDI programs are intended to support opportunities for citizen participation that create peaceful channels for the expression of political views. In the lead-up to the April 5 parliamentary elections, NDI assisted political parties and nonpartisan domestic groups in conducting election monitoring efforts.
Neither NDI nor any of its staff members was involved in any way with the post-election protests and has no connection to those who may have organized those events. The Institute deplores the violence that occurred in the wake of the elections, is concerned about the controversy surrounding the electoral process and those detained following the protests, and hopes that dialogue can lead to a resolution of disputes that promotes confidence in the elections and the results.
NDI welcomes the procurator general’s announcement today that described as “groundless” charges that the Institute’s resident representative violated the terms of his residency in Moldova. NDI hopes that his status and that of NDI will be formalized as soon as possible.
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The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government. More information is available at NDI.org.
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Released on April 16, 2009
