SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER COUP IN SIERRA LEONE; CONDEMNS TREATMENT OF UN STAFF, LOOTING OF UN OFFICES
Press Release
SG/SM/6241
SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER COUP IN SIERRA LEONE; CONDEMNS TREATMENT OF UN STAFF, LOOTING OF UN OFFICES
19970527 The following statement was issued on Sunday, 25 May by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:The Secretary-General was distressed to learn that there had been a coup against the duly elected Government of Sierra Leone, especially when the United Nations is engaged in the effort to consolidate the peace process in the country.
The United Nations and the international community firmly uphold the principle that the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of governments and that governments, democratically elected, shall not be overthrown by force.
The Secretary-General wishes to express his concern regarding the threat to the safety and security of all, in particular of the civilian population and of United Nations personnel serving in Sierra Leone. He strongly condemns the taking into custody of Sierra Leonean staff working for the United Nations, the looting of United Nations offices and the taking over of United Nations vehicles and equipment.
The United Nations and the international community attach the greatest importance to a democratic order for Sierra Leone. The United Nations continues to stand ready to assist the people of Sierra Leone in their quest for a society grounded in democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights and the pursuit of peace and national reconciliation in their country.
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