Speaking at a press conference for foreign journalists in Washington yesterday, Philip Gordon, assistant secretary of the bureau of European and Eurasian affairs, said: “I have seen the reports about the election commission ruling out 12 candidates, and I would say I’m not going to stand at this distance and make independent judgments about the merits of each case. What I could say more broadly is that it’s obviously critically important to have an inclusive political process and avoid any perception that people are being ruled out for political reasons.”
He also responded to a question on the Ergenekon case, saying: “It’s a very complicated matter. What I would say is similar to what I said in response to the previous question. What is important is that certain principles be respected: rule of law, transparency, inclusiveness.”
The European Union on Tuesday also voiced concerns about the YSK ruling. “The commission is very concerned about this decision and will be closely studying its reasoning and monitor any further developments,” said Natasha Butler, spokesperson for Enlargement and Neighborhood Policy Commissioner Stefan Füle.
