Secretary-General, Troubled by Events around Prime Minister’s Resignation,

 

Stresses Need to Proceed with National Dialogue in Mali

 

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

The Secretary-General is troubled by the circumstances leading to the resignation of Mali’s Prime Minister, Cheick Modibo Diarra.  The Secretary-General calls again for a cessation of military interference in politics and urges the Malian leadership to resolve any issues through peaceful means.

These latest developments underscore the importance of sustained national and international efforts to address the political crisis in Bamako.  The Secretary-General calls on the Interim President, Dioncounda Traore, to expeditiously initiate consultations on the appointment of a consensual Prime Minister and the formation of a broad-based inclusive Government.  The Secretary-General stresses the urgency of moving forward with the National Dialogue in Mali in order to define a consensual road map for the transition that includes the holding of elections and leads to the full restoration of constitutional order and territorial integrity.

The Secretary-General stands ready to use his good offices and relevant United Nations presences on the ground to continue to support Mali in addressing the crisis.

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For information media • not an official record