SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES PEACEFUL STAGING OF REFERENDUM IN ZANZIBAR

4 August - Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the peaceful staging of a

referendum in Zanzibar, saying it will help with long-term reconciliation efforts in the

semi-autonomous Tanzanian islands.
Two thirds of voters in Zanzibar cast their ballots over the weekend in favour of a unity

government, according to media reports.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban congratulated the people of Zanzibar

and said that he welcomes the agreement between the islands' two main political parties –

Chama Cha Mapinduzi and Civic United Front – which led to the referendum, which is

“aimed at paving the way for a long-term reconciliation.

“The Secretary-General is encouraged by the determination of the people of Zanzibar to build a peaceful and united future, and reiterates the readiness of the United Nations to assist them,” it added.