26 June 2007 Dili, Timor-Leste – The distribution of ballot papers for the Parliamentary Elections on 30 June commenced today from Dili to the District Capitals through the joint efforts of the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration (STAE) and the United Nations.

Speaking about the extensive security and logistical plans currently in place and the new specifications for the ballot papers, Deputy Special Representative Finn Reske-Nielsen said "much effort has been placed – both by the local authorities and the United Nations – to ensure that the authenticity and security of the ballot papers for the upcoming elections are maintained."

"We would like to assure the people of Timor-Leste that the movement of ballots will be closely monitored throughout the entire process," he added.

The ballot papers will be transported from the District Capitals to the 708 polling stations and 520 polling centers by helicopters, vehicles and horses with porters on 29 June. A total of 652,000 ballot papers will be distributed throughout the country in pads of 50s. At the district level, a reserve will be kept to deal with contingencies.

The wet weather current affecting Timor-Leste is presenting challenges to the distribution of material in some districts, which has led UNMIT to revise its delivery programme. An increased number of stations will need to have aerial deliveries, which can be accommodated with United Nations helicopters.

UNMIT is mandated through Security Council Resolution 1704 to "support Timor-Leste in all aspects of the 2007 presidential and parliamentary electoral process, including through technical and logistical support, electoral policy advice and verification or other means."

For further information please contact UNMIT spokesperson Allison Cooper on +670 7230453