Security Council Press Statement on Guinea-Bissau

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Susan Rice ( United States):

The members of the Security Council recall its press statement SC/10597 of 31 March 2012 and strongly condemn the forcible seizure of power from the legitimate Government of Guinea-Bissau by some elements of its armed forces.  The members of the Security Council firmly denounce this incursion by the military into politics.  They call on these elements to ensure the safety and security of interim President Raimundo Pereira, Prime Minister Carlos Gomes Junior and all senior officials currently detained and demand their immediate release.

The members of the Security Council urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from violence and remain calm.

The members of the Security Council note with profound regret that these events are occurring just prior to the launch of the campaign for the second round of the presidential election.  The members of the Security Council demand the immediate restoration of constitutional order and the legitimate Government to allow for the completion of the on-going electoral process, including the legislative elections.

The members of the Security Council welcome the engagement and the efforts of international partners, namely the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries, the African Union and the Angolan bilateral Mission, in pursuit of peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau.

The members of the Security Council emphasize the need to uphold and respect the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Guinea-Bissau.

The members of the Security Council express their intention to continue to follow closely the developments in Guinea-Bissau.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record