PROVISIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION IN BOSNIA PASSES NEW DECISIONS

SARAJEVO, Apr 20 (Hina) - The Provisional Electoral Commission in Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday passed a decision on changes to electoral rules and deadlines for the registration of political parties and coalitions which plan to take part at this year's elections for the first time. The newly adopted electoral rules' provisions veto the candidacy of judges, police and armed forces' members, and Bosnia's diplomatic and consular representatives abroad, a spokeswoman for the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe Mission to Bosnia, Tanya Domi, told reporters in Sarajevo. The above mentioned officials can take part in the elections if they previously resign on their duties, she explained. The new electoral rules also stipulate that persons elected at an upcoming municipal election will not be able to perform any electoral or legislative duty at any other level of authority. Political parties, independent candidates, and coalitions which took part in any of Bosnia's previous elections do not have the obligation to submit their political platforms again. All those participating for the first time will have to do so. Persons taking part in this year's elections will not be requested to submit a previous report on their assets, but those who are elected will have to do so. The Provisional Electoral Commission decided to keep a provision adopted last year which stated that three of the first nine candidates on electoral lists be women. The provision's aim is to incite a stronger female participation in Bosnia's bodies of authority. All political parties and independent candidates registering this year for the first time will be able to do so between May 10 and 21. Party coalitions may register between June 14 and 25, while lists of candidates must be submitted between June 28 and July 26. (hina) ha