[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 28 (Thursday, March 6, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E405]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONGRATULATING PEOPLE OF NICARAGUA ON DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS SUCCESS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 5, 1997

  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to state my 
support for House Concurrent Resolution 18, congratulating the people 
of the Republic of Nicaragua on the success of their democratic 
elections.
  The road to peace for the Nicaraguan people has been difficult and 
the path to democracy froth with conflict.
  On October 20, 1996, 15.7 million ballots, 32,000 candidates, 35 
political parties or associations express the wish of the Nicaraguan 
people for democracy. The ballots cast represented between 80 and 90 
percent voter participation.
  The elected positions ranged from President to city council members.
  The Supreme Electoral Council of Nicaragua worked tirelessly to 
prepare for this election. The Chair and members of the Council showed 
a willingness to consult frequently and effectively with the political 
parties to resolve potentially serious issues before election day.
  The Nicaraguan people deserve our congratulations for their patience 
during this long process and their determination to have democracy rule 
their country's destiny.
  I hope that this election will pave the way for further achievements 
in the form of resolving the pending property issues which have 
resulted from appropriation of thousands of homes and businesses during 
the 1980's.
  The Nicaraguan people have made the first step toward a stronger more 
vibrant Nicaragua for the 21st century.

                          ____________________