Secretary-General Congratulates People, Government of Myanmar

 

on Holding Peaceful, Orderly Parliamentary By-elections

 

The following statement was issued on 2 April by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General congratulates the people, Government and political parties of Myanmar for the peaceful and largely orderly manner in which Sunday’s by-elections for vacant parliamentary seats were held.  Candidates from various political parties, including the National League for Democracy (NLD), participated freely in the elections, a development that the Secretary-General believes is another significant step towards a better future for Myanmar.  He acknowledges, in particular, the courage and vision of President Thein Sein, which has made such progress possible.

A United Nations team has been on the ground since last week, and was able to witness the voting in a number of constituencies.  Despite some complaints of irregularities during the voting, key stakeholders in Myanmar, including political parties, have stressed to the United Nations team their strong belief that these by-elections are a boost for the ongoing reforms and a very important step towards a more peaceful and democratic future in Myanmar.

The Secretary-General takes note of the constructive efforts and positive statements by the Government and other key stakeholders, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, in the lead-up to and following the by-election.  He is encouraged by the initial reaction of the international community.  The Secretary-General urges the Government and all political forces to cooperate and build on the important achievement of the by-election, and to consolidate the country's democratic gains.  He also calls on all of Myanmar's stakeholders to redouble their efforts towards genuine national reconciliation and long-term and durable peace.

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For information media • not an official record