Voice of America, May 28, 2010 - The ruling party in Burundi has claimed victory in local elections held Monday. Despite two delays and opposition complaints, the head of the European Union election observer mission said the vote met international standards, and she praised the efforts of the central African nation.(...)

On Thursday, the head of the European Union election observer team, Renate Weber, released the mission's preliminary analysis of the polls, and praised Burundi for its civic participation. Weber said the initial round of voting was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, and she expressed satisfaction with the overall process.

"So far the elections have taken place in a calm atmosphere," said Weber. "We are definitely extremely impressed with the massive participation of the people to the vote and we definitely are convinced that this is an extraordinary civic attitude. And it shows that the people of Burundi really want to be involved in the democratic development of their country." (...)

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