SECRETARY-GENERAL CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF SIERRA LEONE ON ‘SPIRIT OF MUTUAL RESPECT AND RECONCILIATION’ IN YESTERDAY’S ELECTIONS

SECRETARY-GENERAL CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF SIERRA LEONE ON ‘SPIRIT OF MUTUAL

RESPECT AND RECONCILIATION’ IN YESTERDAY’S ELECTIONS

Appeals for Continued Calm, Restraint

As Election Results are Collated and Announced

The following statement was issued today be the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General extends his congratulations to the people of Sierra Leone for voting in their numbers and in a spirit of mutual respect and reconciliation in yesterday’s presidential and parliamentary elections.  Their peaceful and enthusiastic participation in the elections is an eloquent testimony to Sierra Leoneans’ determination to turn a page on their tragic past.  It is also a major step on the road to lasting, sustainable peace.

The Secretary-General appeals for continued calm and restraint as the election results are collated and announced.  He also urges political leaders and their followers to be magnanimous in both victory and defeat.

The Secretary-General notes that the country’s pressing reconstruction and national reconciliation needs will be the next challenge for the Sierra Leonean people and the international community.  Extending State authority throughout the country, restoring Government control over natural resources, reintegrating ex-combatants and resettling returning populations will require sustained determination, encouragement and support.

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