Request for Information (RFI)
USAID/Afghanistan is seeking expressions of interest from experienced international organizations with a solid track record of fielding international election observation missions (EOMs) for its planned support of international missions to observe AfghanistanÂ’s presidential and provincial council elections. The elections, which are slated to occur on April 5, 2014, will be a critical milestone in AfghanistanÂ’s continuing political transition and, if widely viewed as credible, transparent, and inclusive, will play a fundamental role in securing the countryÂ’s path towards democratic stability. The purpose of any support that USAID provides will be to 1) assess the conduct of the elections on the basis of Afghan law and international standards, 2) deter irregularities and electoral manipulation, 3) raise public confidence in the electoral process, and 4) promote the right of citizens to vote. This RFI is not binding on the part of U.S. Government and does not obligate USAID to issue a Solicitation, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the review, response and information exchange process with potential Offerors. USAID/Afghanistan anticipates issuing up to three awards to support international EOMs. The total of all awards will range between $6-12 million. The period of performance is approximately three months, beginning on February 1, 2014; with a possible extension should a run-off occur. USAID is interested in funding small-scale EOMs that combine long- and short-term observers and seek the widest geographic coverage possible, given security constraints. USAID expects that international EOMs will regularly communicate with the interested public about their findings, including through statements of preliminary findings, an assessment of any irregularities observed, and other statements at key points throughout the electoral process. Before the conclusion of the EOM, the organizations will prepare an independent, documented, and comprehensive report on the overall election process. USAID-funded international EOMs will be expected to liaise with local domestic election monitors and will be encouraged to partner with regional election observation groups, where possible. In addition, they will be expected to coordinate with other credible international observation missions. Interested organizations must have extensive experience and a proven track record fielding international EOMs, particularly in challenging, post-conflict environments. Please submit expressions of interest to Mr. Jonathan Palmer, Agreement Officer at jpalmer@state.gov and to Ms. Ousay Wahaj, Sup. Acquisition and Assistance Spec. at owahaj@usaid.gov and kabulaidoaamailbox@usaid.gov by October 30th, 2013, 4:30, PM, Kabul Time.
Sup. Acquisition and Assistance Spe
Phone 4133
