Tunis 24 September 2004-- Members of the National Observatory for Presidential and legislative Elections, led by Mr Abdelwahab El Behi, president of the Observatory, are pursuing their contacts with political parties.

They have met in recent days with Mr Ali Chaouch, secretary general of the Democratic Constitutional Rally (RCD).

The RCD, chaired by President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, currently holds the majority of seats in parliament.

Mr Chaouch emphasized the commitment of RCD cadres and members to ensuring the success of next presidential and legislative elections scheduled in Tunisia on October 24 th .

Members of the observatory also visited in recent days the headquarters of "Ettajdid movement", one of Tunisia 's seven opposition parties.

"Ettajdid" (former communist) is participating in the presidential and legislative elections. It is currently one of five opposition parties represented in Parliament.