ADDIS ABABA — The head of the European Union's monitoring team for Ethiopia's elections next month vowed Friday to remain impartial after it was accused of bias by Addis Ababa during the 2005 polls.
"I know in the past there has been criticism of the EU mission, but all I can say is that our team is highly professional and we will carry out our mission knowing our responsibilities," Thijs Berman told journalists.
"Our observation team will be independent and neutral... and there will be no interference," added Berman, a member of the European Socialist Party in the European Parliament.
The EU signed an agreement on Tuesday to send a mission of some 200 observers to the May 23 polls, the first national elections since 2005 when disputed results sparked protests that claimed nearly 200 lives.
Ethiopian authorities accused the head of the EU observation mission at that time, Ana Gomez, of bias and spurring unrest after she alleged that the elections fell below international standards.
The African Union is also sending international observers for the vote.
The Carter Centre, which sent a mission during the previous vote, declined to participate, citing lack of time for preparations.
Some opposition officials have slammed the EU over its decision to send the team, alleging it would legitimise an election "marred by irregularities".
But Prime Minister Meles Zenawi dismissed the claims.
Around 30 million people have registered to vote for Ethiopia's fourth elections since the Communist regime of Mengistu Haile Mariam was toppled in 1991.
AFP
