Secretary-General Calls on All Stakeholders to Ensure Peaceful, Credible Presidential Elections in Central African Republic

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

The Secretary-General calls on all Central Africans, including the candidates, to ensure that the presidential run-off and the new round of legislative elections, scheduled to take place on Sunday, 14 February, are conducted in a peaceful and credible manner.

The Secretary-General commends the Transitional Authorities for their efforts to complete the transition process by 31 March 2016.  Sunday’s polls will bring the country closer to the end of the transition and a return to constitutional order.  These are important steps towards political stability and long-term economic recovery.

The Secretary-General recalls the significant support provided by MINUSCA [United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic] to the electoral process.  He reiterates the determination of the Mission to take all necessary measures to prevent any disruption of Sunday’s elections.

The Secretary-General calls on all stakeholders to maintain an environment conducive to peaceful and credible elections, in keeping with the spirit of the Code of Conduct signed by the candidates and political parties.  He urges them to resolve any dispute that may arise from the elections through established legal channels.  Those who instigate or perpetrate acts of violence will be held accountable.

The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the United Nations, working closely with the Economic Community of Central African States, the African Union and other members of the international community, to help the people of the Central African Republic advance towards a future of peace, stability and reconciliation.