The right to vote is among the most fundamental of democratic rights and I urge you to exercise that right in the local elections on 6 October. There are countless reasons to cast your vote. Your participation ensures that your priorities become your government’s priorities. The more people who vote, the stronger and more reliable the entire electoral framework becomes. Participating in the elections also represents civic responsibility.
Brčko District is a unique community, one with a significant degree of self-governance and a large budget. There is much that can be done, and much more that should be done. Brčko has generally been on an upward trajectory over the past five years, and this must intensify in the next mandate.
Brčko District is a model of stability and peaceful coexistence. But it must also be a model of efficient administration, excellent infrastructure, and a dynamic private sector that provides good jobs. Brčko’s healthcare and education systems must adequately respond to today’s demands while preparing for the needs of the future. Corruption must be eradicated. Brčko should lead the way, setting an example for others in accountability, transparency, and reliability. Capital projects must be fully realized. The public-private partnership principle must be promoted and applied to unlock its full potential.
The people you elect on 6 October will have the responsibility to make this a reality.
This year, there is another important reason to vote. Brčko has been chosen to host a pilot project employing new election integrity technology. Your active participation will help election officials to learn lessons, to refine how these technologies can be best deployed, ahead of their potential application in general elections in two years. In short, the 6 October local elections in Brčko can help to ensure safe and more transparent elections for the whole country.