SECRETARY-GENERAL CONDEMNS ASSASSINATION OF GEBRAN TUENI, ADVOCATE OF SOVEREIGN LEBANON, FREE PRESS

SECRETARY-GENERAL CONDEMNS ASSASSINATION OF GEBRAN TUENI,

ADVOCATE OF SOVEREIGN LEBANON , FREE PRESS

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

The Secretary-General was shocked and dismayed to learn of the assassination of Gebran Tueni, a tireless advocate of a sovereign Lebanon and free press.  This tragic assassination is today the latest in a vicious campaign against Lebanese citizens, journalists, political leaders and their right to freedom of expression. The Secretary-General strongly condemns this cold-blooded murder and extends his deepest sympathies to the families of those killed and injured.

The Secretary-General reiterates his call for the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1559 (2004).  The perpetrators and instigators of today’s and other attacks must be brought to justice to ensure an end to impunity.

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For information media • not an official record