Condemning Violent Incidents in Kidal, Mali, Secretary-General Urges Local Stakeholders to Help Restore Calm, Defuse Tensions

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

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the violent demonstrations that have taken place on Monday, 18 April, in Kidal, in the north of Mali, and regrets the loss of life and injury.  According to preliminary information two protesters died and several were injured.

The Secretary-General also regrets the unacceptable damage to the Kidal airfield, a crucial asset for the delivery of services and support to the people in the region, including by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).

The Secretary-General presents his sincere condolences to the families of those who have died and wishes a prompt recovery to the injured.  He is committed to establishing the facts surrounding the loss of life and injury.

The Secretary-General urgently calls on all concerned and local leaders, including the leaders of the Coordination des mouvements de l’Azawad, to cooperate in defusing tensions and exercising restraint so as to allow for a prompt investigation into the events.  A return to calm and order in the area would facilitate a resumption of the functioning of the airfield in Kidal and promote common efforts in support of the peace agreement.

The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations commitment to supporting the stabilization of Mali and implementation of the peace agreement.