On Eve of Self-Determination Referendum in South Sudan, Secretary-General Commends

National Unity Government, Government of Southern Sudan for Leadership, Wisdom

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

On the eve of the referendum for the self-determination of the people of Southern Sudan, the Secretary-General commends the Government of National Unity of Sudan and the Government of Southern Sudan for their leadership, wisdom, and concerted efforts in ensuring that the referendum is held, as scheduled, on 9 January, in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation. 

The Secretary-General also commends the work of the South Sudan Referendum Commission in Khartoum and its bureau in Juba, and expresses his gratitude to all international partners, including those that have deployed observer missions, for their support to this process. 

The Secretary-General urges the parties to the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement to continue to do everything necessary to ensure free, fair, and secure polling.  The United Nations will continue for its part to provide full support to the referendum process and to the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

The Secretary-General calls on all the people of Sudan to observe this occasion in the spirit of brotherhood and peace.

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For information media • not an official record