Statement of the Secretary-General on the Presidential and National Assembly elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

NEW YORK, November 28, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- As the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are preparing to vote, I would like to reiterate the support of the United Nations to this historical process. These elections are crucial for the country's progress towards stabilization and development.

I call on all political leaders and the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to exercise restraint throughout the process to ensure that the elections are held in a peaceful and secure environment. I appeal to them to conform to the relevant provisions of the Constitution and the electoral law; to promote democratic debate; to respect the results of the ballots; and to address any disputes that may arise, through the established mediation and legal channels.

I hope that many Congolese and international observers, as well as witnesses of political parties will be present at all levels of the electoral process, in particular at the polling stations and centres.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, supported by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and international partners, has done notable work to organize the elections in a timely manner. I am grateful to my Special Representative and the staff from MONUSCO and UNDP for their support in assisting Congolese authorities throughout the electoral process.

I stress the primary responsibility of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for maintaining a secure environment for the elections.