SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES IVORIAN PARTIES TO FACILITATE APPOINTMENT OF NEW PRIME MINISTER, PREPARATIONS FOR 2006 ELECTIONS

SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES IVORIAN PARTIES TO FACILITATE APPOINTMENT

OF NEW PRIME MINISTER, PREPARATIONS FOR 2006 ELECTIONS

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

The Secretary-General is following closely developments in Côte d’Ivoire, especially in view of the approaching date of 30 October, when the governance arrangements set out in the African Union decision of 6 October and endorsed by the Security Council should come into effect.  These arrangements provide a clear framework for moving forward decisively in the Ivorian peace process.

The Secretary-General calls on all Ivorian parties to commit themselves to implementing fully and effectively the African Union decision and resolution 1633 (2005).  In this connection, the Secretary-General urges them to cooperate with international stakeholders to facilitate the appointment of a new Prime Minister as soon as possible and the preparation of a road map leading to open, free and fair elections in 2006. 

The Secretary-General also urges all the parties and their followers to desist from any action, including refraining from organizing disruptive political gatherings that may create tensions.  The United Nations is determined to work closely with all Ivorian parties, the African Union, ECOWAS and other international partners in helping the people of Côte d'Ivoire achieve a peaceful and durable settlement.

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For information media • not an official record