Whether the Democratic Party (Partai Demokrat) sent observers in August or September 2004 to witness or observe the voting at the Indonesian Consulate in Vancouver for the presidential election [IDN100191.E]

In a telephone interview on 9 June 2005, an official at the Indonesian Consulate in Vancouver said voting took place at the Consulate three times in 2004: in April, July and September. He also said that no observers or witnesses from any political parties were present during any of these votes (Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, Vancouver 9 June 2005).

The same official stated that persons wishing to become observers in Canada would first have to obtain a letter from the political party in Indonesia confirming that they are representing that particular party (ibid.) After authentication of the letter by the Indonesian General Elections Commission (KPU), those persons would receive authorization to become observers (ibid.). Information corroborating the official's statements could not be found among the sources consulted by the Research Directorate

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim for refugee protection. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Reference


Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia. 9 June 2005. Telephone interview with an official.

Additional Sources Consulted


Internet sites, including: Inside Indonesia, Kompas.