Operation in Côte d’Ivoire will Fulfil Mandate, Secretary-General Pledges,

 

Warning of ‘Consequences’ for Attacks on United Nations Personnel

 

The following statement was issued on 18 December by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is aware of statements by Laurent Gbagbo’s Spokesperson calling for the withdrawal of the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI).

The international community has spoken with one voice regarding Mr. Gbagbo’s attempt to hold onto power.  The statements issued by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union in this regard have shown that the African continent is united in its commitment to respect the democratically expressed will of the Ivorian people and have recognized Alassane Ouattara as the President-elect.  These statements were endorsed by the Security Council.  The Council will meet once again on Monday to discuss the situation in Côte d’Ivoire and the renewal of the mission’s mandate, which is due to expire on 31 December 2010.

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the attacks on a United Nations patrol and sentries at UNOCI headquarters perpetrated by elements of the Ivorian security forces apparently loyal to Mr. Gbagbo, and an attack on United Nations military observers by Young Patriots on Saturday, 18 December, which left two military observers wounded.

The Secretary-General reiterates the warning he issued on Friday that any attack on United Nations forces will be an attack on the international community, and those responsible for these actions will be held accountable.  Any continued actions obstructing and constricting United Nations operations are similarly unacceptable.  UNOCI will fulfil its mandate and will continue to monitor and document any human rights violations, incitement to hatred and violence, or attacks on United Nations peacekeepers.

There will be consequences for those who have perpetrated or orchestrated any such actions or do so in the future.

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For information media • not an official record