US calls for credible and transparent Venezuelan poll counting
Press Trust of India Washington The United States today called for a credible and transparent election process in Venezuela so that the people of the country have full confidence and faith in the results of the election.
"The United States notes the acceptance by both candidates for an audit of the ballots and supports calls for a credible and transparent process to reassure the Venezuelan people regarding the results," White House Press Secretary Jay carney said in a statement.
Such a process would contribute to political dialogue and help advance the country's democracy, he noted.
The United States, he said, congratulates the Venezuelan people for their participation in the April 14 presidential elections in a peaceful and orderly manner.
"We call on the Venezuelan government to respect the rights of Venezuelan citizens to peaceful assembly and free speech. We also urge everyone to refrain from violence and other measure that could raise tensions at this difficult moment," Carney said.