Azerbaijan, Baku /corr. Trend S.Ilhamgizi / The discussions that will take place in September between the Government of Azerbaijan and the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe will focus on annexes and amendments to the Electoral Code of Azerbaijan, said the Head of the Social-Political Department of the Executive Apparat of Azerbaijan President, Ali Hasanov.
He stressed that discussions are currently being held between the Government of Azerbaijan and the Venice Commission over the Electoral Code of Azerbaijan and Law on Freedom of Assembly. Azerbaijan is represented in the discussions by delegates of the Azerbaijani Parliament and Presidential Apparat.
According to Hasanov, there are new proposals regarding the new law, but their essence was not disclosed.
"The debates will be continuing in September in Baku. The meeting will be attended by all sides who have presented proposals on the law. In addition, the discussions will be attended by representatives of the opposition and public organizations. Our position is that we say 'yes' and accept proposals regarding improvement of the electoral experience, conduct of more democratic, fair and transparent elections and raise people's trust in the elections. However, we do not accept proposals which have been directed towards ensuring individual interests of separate persons that adversely affect the elections," Hasanov said.
In addition, he expressed his opinion on if the Government of Azerbaijan will accept proposals on the formation of election commissions on a parity base, i.e. equal division between the Government and the opposition. "Currently it is impossible to form election commissions on a parity basis. There are people who do not participate in the political process, but have the right like politicians. Therefore, the equality is only possible if all sides participate in the elections," Hasanov said.