Ahead of polls, Ban calls on all Central Africans, including candidates, to ensure credible elections

13 February 2016 – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on all Central Africans, including the candidates, to ensure that the presidential run-off and the new round of legislative elections, set to take place Sunday are conducted in a peaceful and credible manner.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson in New York, Mr. Ban commended Transitional Authorities of the Central African Republic (CAR) for their efforts to complete the transition process by 31 March 2016.

“Sunday's polls will bring the country closer to the end of the transition and a return to constitutional order. These are important steps towards political stability and long-term economic recovery,” said the statement.

Recalling the significant support provided by the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the country (MINUSCA) to the electoral process the UN chief reiterated the Mission's determination to take all necessary measures to prevent any disruption of Sunday's polls.

“The Secretary-General calls on all stakeholders to maintain an environment conducive to peaceful and credible elections, in keeping with the spirit of the Code of Conduct signed by the candidates and political parties,” said Mr. Ban in the statement, urging all parties to resolve any dispute that may arise from the elections through established legal channels.

“Those who instigate or perpetrate acts of violence will be held accountable,” the statement emphasized.

Mr. Ban went on to reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the United Nations, working closely with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the African Union (AU) and other members of the international community, to help the people of the CAR advance towards a future of peace, stability and reconciliation.