SECRETARY-GENERAL CONGRATULATES GUINEA-BISSAU ON PEACEFUL ELECTION

 

 

The following statement was issued on Friday, 31 July, by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

 

The Secretary-General has taken note of the announcement by the Supreme Court of Guinea-Bissau of the final results of the presidential elections held on 26 July 2009.  He congratulates the State institutions which participated in the organization of the polls, including, in particular, the National Electoral Commission, the Government and security forces, as well as political parties and the people of Guinea-Bissau as a whole, for their constructive efforts which resulted in the holding of peaceful elections.  He also commends the international community for its continued engagement with Guinea-Bissau at a critical point in its history.

 

The Secretary-General is encouraged by the positive statements made by both candidates who pledged to respect the outcome of the elections and to work together for the national interest.  The United Nations stands ready to support and work with the newly elected President and with the Government as a whole in helping to consolidate peace and to promote socio-economic development in the country.

 

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For information media • not an official record