WITH REFERENDUM UNDER WAY IN EGYPT, SECRETARY-GENERAL STRESSES RESPECT FOR FREE EXPRESSION, COMMITMENT TO NON-VIOLENCE

NEW YORK, January 15, 2014/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is following closely the referendum process in Egypt. He stresses the importance of respect for freedom of assembly and expression, as well as commitment to non-violence. The Secretary-General encourages all Egyptians to ensure that the next phase of the transition is conducted in an inclusive, peaceful and transparent manner.

The Secretary-General calls on all Egyptians to express their differences without violence. He continues to express the support of the United Nations for an Egyptian-led transition process that adheres to democratic principles and upholds the human rights of all Egyptians.