Secretary-General, Concerned about Tensions in Congo, Urges Inclusive Political Dialogue, Tolerance of Peaceful Demonstration

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

The Secretary-General is concerned about tensions between opposition parties and the Government of the Republic of the Congo in relation to the referendum on a new draft constitution scheduled for 25 October.  Reports of recent violence are particularly worrying.

The Secretary-General encourages all stakeholders to choose the path of inclusive political dialogue ahead of the referendum, and to resolve peacefully any dispute that may arise from this exercise.

The Secretary-General also calls on the authorities to safeguard the right to peaceful demonstration.