Congratulating Iraqis on Governorate Council Elections, Secretary-General Applauds

 

Their ‘Courage and Determination’ to Thwart Attempts to Disrupt Process

 

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

The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Iraq for participating in the Governorate Council elections.  By exercising their constitutional right to vote, the Iraqi people have reaffirmed their desire for a democratic Iraq.  The Secretary-General applauds their courage and determination, which thwarted attempts to disrupt the electoral process through a vicious campaign of assassinations of candidates, threats to electoral staff and terrorist attacks.

The Secretary-General commends the Independent High Electoral Commission for organizing the elections in a professional manner.  He calls for actions to enable the organization of elections in the remaining Governorates, including Anbar and Ninewa, without further delay.

The Secretary-General encourages all political and electoral stakeholders to continue cooperating with all Iraqi electoral institutions throughout the rest of the electoral process, including the adjudication of formal complaints before results can be certified.  He reaffirms the full commitment of the United Nations to continue to support and assist the Independent High Electoral Commission.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record