SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS CALM ATMOSPHERE OF 21 APRIL PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

FURTHER EVIDENCE OF HAITI’S COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY

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

On 21 April, the people of Haiti cast their vote in the second round of national parliamentary elections.  Despite a significantly lower voter turnout than in the February presidential elections, the calm atmosphere offered further evidence of the Haitian people’s commitment to democracy.  The Secretary-General would like to recognize the excellent collaboration between Haiti and the international community that resulted in an exemplary logistical and technical process.

Together with the outcome of the presidential election, Friday’s vote represents a crucial step towards placing Haiti firmly on the path to peaceful and stable development.  It will be essential for the country’s progress that all elements of Haiti’s political spectrum and the various branches of Haiti’s Government work in a spirit of close cooperation to ensure that this opportunity is fully grasped.

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For information media • not an official record