WASHINGTON - The United States on Tuesday criticized recent Egyptian elections, citing "worrying" problems with restrictions on poll monitors, the press and on the freedom of speech. "The United States is disappointed with the conduct during and leading up to Egypt's November 28 legislative elections," White House National Security Council spokesman Mike Hammer said in a statement. Rights groups and the opposition accused Egyptian authorities of ballot stuffing, bullying and other fraudulent tactics in Sunday's first-round poll. The government said voting was fair and any abuses were not serious enough to undermine the election. The United States, an ally and major donor to the country, took a different view. "Numerous reported irregularities at the polls, the lack of international monitors and the many problems encountered by domestic monitors, and the restrictions on the basic freedoms of association, speech and press in the run-up to the elections are worrying," Hammer said. Turnout was officially put at 25 per cent. Rights groups who sent monitors to polling stations said it was half that. The White House commended those Egyptians who had taken part in the poll, and cited its "longstanding partnership with the people of Egypt." "We look forward to continuing to work with the Egyptian Government and Egypt's vibrant civil society to help Egypt achieve its political, social, and economic aspirations consistent with international standards," Hammer said.
