Secretary-General, Congratulating Libya on Parliamentary Elections, Voices Concern

 

Over Continuing Violence, Assassination of Human Rights Defender

 

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

The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Libya on the election of the Council of Representatives.  The election marks an important step in moving the transition process forward and stabilizing the political process.

The Secretary-General commends all actors for providing the space for the conduct of this important election.  He congratulates the Libyan High National Election Commission for its work in supervising the polls.  He also reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to work closely with the newly elected body in furthering the aspirations of the Libyan people to build a State based on democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights.

The Secretary-General also notes with deep concern the continuing violence in Libya, including a number of incidents on election day.  He strongly condemns the assassination of Salwa Bugaighis, a courageous and respected human rights defender who played a significant role in the February 2011 Libyan revolution and continued since to contribute to the transition.  The Secretary-General reiterates the need to protect human rights defenders and calls on all Libyans to refrain from violence and acts that undermine the democratic transition process.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record