SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS FOR FREE, PEACEFUL VOTE, AS TOGO

 

APPROACHES 24 APRIL PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

 

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

Following last weekend’s fatal clashes between supporters and opponents of the ruling party in Togo, the Secretary-General urgently calls on leaders from across the political spectrum to avoid any actions or statements that could incite or contribute to violence before, during, or after the 24 April presidential vote.

The Secretary-General believes the election provides Togo with a chance to emerge from a difficult political transition as a united and peaceful nation.  In light of the many concerns already raised about the electoral process, he urges authorities to do all within their power to ensure that citizens are able to vote freely and peacefully to ensure a credible and transparent outcome.  He reiterates the UN’s readiness, following a peaceful electoral process, to work with all segments of the society to promote national reconciliation and socio-economic development.

* *** *