Security Council Press Statement on Afghanistan Elections

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Oh Joon ( Republic of Korea):

The members of the Security Council welcome the announcement by the Afghan Independent Election Commission on 15 May of the certified final results of the first round of the Afghan presidential election.

The members of the Security Council reiterate their commendation to the Afghan Government, electoral institutions and security forces on the holding of the elections on 5 April and applaud the courage of the Afghan people who participated in record numbers despite threats and intimidation by the Taliban and other extremist and terrorist groups.  The members encourage the Afghan people to continue to engage in the election process as it moves forward.

The members of the Security Council recognize the important role of the Afghan electoral institutions, including the Independent Election Commission and the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission, and emphasize that all efforts be made to continue to ensure the integrity of the electoral process is safeguarded, including the detection and prevention of fraud.  The members acknowledge the respect all presidential candidates have demonstrated for the electoral process and urge all stakeholders, particularly the remaining two candidates and their supporters, to continue engaging with the electoral institutions and processes with patience and respect.

The members of the Security Council look forward to the next steps of the electoral process and the continued orderly transition to a new administration.  The members reiterate the commitment of the international community to Afghanistan’s transition and welcome the ongoing support role of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

* *** *

For information media • not an official record