SECRETARY-GENERAL CONGRATULATES PEOPLE OF IRAQ ON GOVERNORATE ELECTIONS,

REAFFIRMS UNITED NATIONS SUPPORT DURING NEXT STAGE OF PROCESS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Iraq for strongly exercising their right to vote last weekend in governorate elections, in an atmosphere that was notably and admirably free of violence.  He was deeply impressed by their resolve to participate in a process that should strengthen Iraq’s democracy and further the cause of national reconciliation.  He commends their determination to ensure a transparent and credible process.

The Secretary-General lauds the efforts of the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) for organizing these elections as planned, and commends the professionalism and commitment of the staff involved at each step of the process.  He salutes the massive domestic observation effort facilitated by the IHEC, involving more than a half million national observers and political party agents.

The Secretary-General is also pleased to note the significant presence of international monitors, which is a strong demonstration of support to the Iraqi people and the IHEC on this important day.  He expresses his satisfaction that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) was able to make helpful contributions to the process, including through its technical assistance.  He reaffirms the United Nations commitment to support and assist the IHEC during the next stage of the process, which includes the adjudication of formal complaints before results can be certified.

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For information media • not an official record