Secretary-General condemns arrest of constitutional president of honduras,

urges reinstatement of democratically elected representatives

The following statement was issued on Sunday, 28 June, by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the latest developments in Honduras.  He expresses his strong support for the country’s democratic institutions and condemns the arrest today of the constitutional President of the Republic.  He urges the reinstatement of the democratically elected representatives of the country and full respect for human rights, including safeguards for the security of President Zelaya, members of his family and his government.  He calls on all Hondurans to engage peacefully and in the spirit of reconciliation to resolve their differences.

The Secretary-General welcomes the prompt diplomatic efforts of the Organization of American States, whose Permanent Council is holding a special meeting this morning.  He trusts that international and domestic efforts will succeed in the promotion of a peaceful solution to the crisis through democratic means.

The United Nations stands ready to provide assistance in overcoming this crisis.

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For information media • not an official record