Obama strategist advises on 2010 polls

With the 2010 presidential election fast approaching, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) has sought the expertise of a top United States election expert, Mitchell Stewart. Stewart, is the Executive Director of Organizing for America, a group that managed President Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns in Virginia, Iowa, Texas, and Indiana. The institute that falls under the USAID Political Parties Strengthening Project also brought in Benjamin Fuller, a vetaran political analyst to share election experiences with Rwandan political parties and draw lessons from each others’ camps. Fuller coordinated the Kerry-Edwards ‘s campaign as Ohio Field Operations Director. Speaking to The New Times, Forum for Political Parties’ Executive Secretary, Anicet Kayigema, said that sessions were helpful as they are the forum’s line of building the capacity of political parties before the elections. Fuller also provided his expertise in employing the use of Information Technology during the election period. The duo shared their experiences and generated a lot of interest from Rwandan political parties as they sought information about, and lessons learned from the last U.S. presidential campaigns, and specifically developing a professional campaign structure, engaging youth, and fundraising. Stewart met and held discussions with political party campaign directors from all the political parties operating in Rwanda and later on with the representatives of all political parties Since its commencement in August 2008, the project has trained 400 political leaders in party strengthening techniques, communications, conflict resolution, recruitment, internal democracy methods, and transparency. Ends