Secretary-General Says Elections in Sudan Mark Important Milestone

in Implementation of 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement

 

The following statement was issued on Saturday, 10 April, by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the upcoming elections in Sudan, which mark an important milestone in the implementation of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).  He calls on all the Sudanese people to exercise their right to vote.

For the international community, the holding of peaceful and credible elections is of paramount importance.  The elections should contribute to the opening of political space in Sudan, ahead of the January 2011 referenda stipulated in the CPA.

The Secretary-General encourages the Government, the National Elections Commission (NEC) and political parties to ensure that the elections are conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, free of violence, harassment or intimidation, and to engage in dialogue to address outstanding concerns.

In accordance with its mandate, the United Nations will continue to provide technical assistance and limited logistical support to the NEC and other relevant authorities, towards a successful electoral process.

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For information media • not an official record