UN Security Council press statement on Liberian elections

NEW YORK, November 21, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President José Filipe Moraes Cabral (Portugal):

The members of the Security Council commend the people of Liberia on the completion of their presidential election of 8 November, which was free, fair and transparent. They further commend the National Electoral Commission's successful organization of the electoral process, in accordance with Liberian law.

The members of the Security Council reiterate their appreciation for the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ellen Margrethe Løj, and the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), in accordance with its mandate, to promote security and to provide logistical support and to help create a free, fair and peaceful environment for the Liberian electoral process. The members of the Security Council express appreciation to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and others for their provision of election observers. They call upon all parties to comply with the Liberian Constitution and to use legal channels to settle electoral disputes.

The members of the Security Council are concerned by the violent events of 7 November. They welcome the Government of Liberia's establishment of a Special Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the events and determine the facts and circumstances through independent and impartial proceedings that meet international standards, in order to hold accountable those responsible.

The members of the Security Council encourage the Liberian authorities to continue to work with UNMIL towards achieving progress on the transition of security responsibilities from UNMIL to the national authorities.

The members of the Security Council encourage all Liberians to remain committed to the legitimate political process, to exercise maximum restraint and to work together to promote enduring peace and stability.

The members of the Security Council call on all Liberian leaders to promote meaningful reconciliation and inclusive dialogue in order to consolidate peace and advance Liberia's democratic development.