Observers criticise Sudan polls

Khartoum, 18 April-(ANA)-Two international organisations monitoring the elections in Sudan say the controversial polls failed to meet full international standards.

The EU and the Carter Center, led by former US President Jimmy Carter, said there were significant failings, citing reports of intimidation and harassment.

However, both concluded the polls were a significant step towards democracy.

Results are to be returned on Tuesday, with Omar al-Bashir expected to be reaffirmed as president.

The polls - presidential, parliamentary and regional - were the first multi-party elections since 1986 and part of a north-south deal to end two decades of war.

The complicated ballot was beset by problems and heavily criticised by the Sudanese opposition and local observers. (ANA)

FA/ANA/18 April 2010-----