“To be free, participation in elections must be conducted in an atmosphere characterized by the absence of intimidation and the presence of a wide range of fundamental human rights.”(1)

1. INTRODUCTION
There is universal acknowledgement that free and fair elections are key to recognizing the right to self-determination. It is this clash of contrary opinions, manifested through informed choice through a ballot which is the basis of all democratic governance. An environment that is sensitive and responsive of basic human rights is an essential prerequisite for any election, which seeks to be characterized as free and fair.

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