Deploring Violent Incidents at Demonstration in Front of Mali Mission, Secretary-General Will Launch Inquiry with Government, All Parties

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

The Secretary-General deplores the incidents that took place on 27 January during a demonstration in front of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) base in Gao town in the north of Mali.  He is saddened by the violence that surrounded the demonstration and the reported death of at least three protesters and the injury of several others.  The Secretary-General has decided to launch an inquiry to determine the facts surrounding this tragic incident.  The United Nations will collaborate with the Government of Mali and all parties on the ground in this effort.

The Secretary-General presents his sincere condolences to the families of those who have died, and wishes a prompt recovery to those injured.

The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations' commitment to supporting the stabilization of Mali.  He remains deeply concerned over the continued fighting in many parts of the country.  The Secretary-General reminds all parties of the need to respect their ceasefire commitments to enable the urgent resumption of peace talks in Algiers.