SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE RESTORATION OF DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS IN NEPAL, AFTER CONSITUTIONAL MONARCHY DISSOLVES GOVERNMENT

SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE RESTORATION OF DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS

IN NEPAL, AFTER CONSITUTIONAL MONARCHY DISSOLVES GOVERNMENT

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

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the actions taken by the constitutional monarchy in Nepal on Tuesday to dissolve the Government, impose a state of emergency, and suspend civil liberties and freedom of expression.

The Secretary-General views these actions as a serious setback for the country.  He does not believe that they will bring lasting peace and stability to Nepal.  Steps should be taken immediately to restore democratic freedoms and institutions.

The Secretary-General is very mindful of the safety and well-being of the Nepalese people and their representatives, including political leaders, human rights workers and journalists.  He urges calm and restraint by all parties in the country so as to avoid actions that could worsen the situation.

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