Secretary-General Urges Large, Peaceful Turnout for Presidential

Run-Off Vote in Guinea-Bissau

 

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

The Secretary-General continues to follow closely the situation in Guinea-Bissau on the eve of the 18 May run-off presidential election, which is expected to bring the transition period to an end.  He commends all national stakeholders for their efforts to ensure a credible electoral process, and the two presidential candidates for having conducted a peaceful and orderly electoral campaign.  The Secretary-General lauds the generous support of international partners in the electoral process.

In casting their votes on 18 May, Bissau-Guineans will take another step towards stability.  The Secretary-General urges voters to show the same sense of civic duty exhibited during the first round of presidential and legislative elections by turning out in large numbers and in a peaceful manner.

In phone calls today with Nuno Gomes Nabiam and José Mário Vaz, the Secretary-General urged both presidential candidates to respect the official results and follow existing legal procedures to resolve any electoral disputes.  He trusts that both candidates will be guided by the best interest of the country, independently of the results.

The United Nations will continue to support the people of Guinea-Bissau as they conclude the transition and begin the process of working towards rebuilding the State and promoting stability and sustainable development.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record