Those who are elected to power in a democratic transition must respect democratic norms, the top U.S. diplomat said in a speech to the Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe today. “Transitions require fair and inclusive elections, but they also demand that those who are elected embrace democratic norms and rules,” said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, commenting on Egypt's ongoing parliamentary elections. “In Egypt, new actors will be seated in the parliament, including representatives of Islamist parties,” she said, adding that “all democratic actors and elected officials” should uphold “universal human rights, including women's rights, to allow free religious practice, to promote tolerance and good relations among communities of different faiths, and to support peaceful relations with their neighbors.” “We urge the Egyptian authorities to ensure that free and fair voting continues through the next election rounds and to adhere to their commitments to move toward a new civilian government,” said Clinton. “Over the next few months, the Egyptian Government must protect peaceful protestors and hold accountable those responsible for previous incidents of violence.” “Democracies are guided by the rules of the game, including the inevitable transfers of power from one party to another,” she added. “The Egyptian people deserve a democracy that is enduring.”
