TSE Rules Out International Observers in Hand Count
While the TSE invited international observers to witness the E-day activities, they have ruled out that the observers can monitor the hand count. A group of 30 people held vigil on Monday night to pressure the use of international NGOs in the count.
TSE president, Óscar Fonseca, explained that " the Electoral Code does not permit international observers in the count, since effectively the ballots are scrutinized one by one. Nobody can dare to judge in a matter as delicate as national elections. The word fraude was eliminated 50 years ago from elections in Costra Rica. These demonstrations are very dangerous, particularly when there is no formal complaint against the TSE."
Fernando Francia, participant in the vigil, said: "Special elections require special measures".
Óscar Arias stated that he thought it was fine to have observers: "He who has nothing to fear, has nothing to hide ". He denied that such a measure would put into doubt the independence of the TSE.
Ottón Solís agreed with the demonstrators as they have expressed themselves "in a peaceful manner, and they assure that hte decision of the majority will be respected ".