Secretary-General Condemns Coup d’État in Niger, Appeals for Calm

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

The Secretary-General condemns the coup d’état that took place in Niger on 18 February 2010.  He reiterates his disapproval of unconstitutional changes of Government as well as attempts to remain in power through unconstitutional means.  He takes note of the statement by the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy that it intends to restore constitutional order in Niger and calls on the Council to proceed swiftly with these efforts through a process that is consensual and that includes all segments of Nigerien society.

The Secretary-General appeals for calm and for the respect of the rule of law and of the human rights of all Nigeriens.  He reiterates the readiness of the United Nations to support initiatives aimed at resolving Niger’s political and constitutional crisis in a peaceful and sustainable manner.  Through the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa, the United Nations is working closely with its partners, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, as part of our joint efforts to help resolve the crisis.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record