U.S. Department of State welcomed the upcoming Parliamentary elections

SANA'A, Dec. 16 (Saba) - The U.S. Department of State
welcomed the upcoming Parliamentary elections in Yemen as an
opportunity for the Yemeni people to renew their democratic
institutions and processes, but expressed concern about the lack of
consensus and cooperation between the principal political parties.

It is important for the integrity of the election process that
preparations proceed in a fair and transparent manner, untainted by
violence and accusations of misconduct, said a statemen by the U.S.
Department of State on Monday.

We are concerned that the lack of consensus and cooperation between
the principal political parties in Yemen puts the successful
execution of the elections at risk, said the statement." "Moreover,
it contributes to a perception that neither the ruling nor
opposition parties are prepared to make the concessions necessary to
ensure that the citizens of Yemen are able to express their
political will in a free and transparent election."

The U.S Department of State called on all political parties in Yemen
to return immediately to dialogue to reach a consensus on the
procedures for the upcoming parliamentary elections "that are
consistent with recommendations made by international elections
observers in 2006."

All Yemeni political parties share the responsibility to participate
in the democratic process and to find a consensus to allow the
elections to proceed in a manner that will reflect Yemen's
commitment to democracy, it said.

"We look forward to a spirited campaign season, overseen by the
responsible offices of the Supreme Council for Elections and
Referenda in an orderly and transparent manner," it said.