Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Zimbabwe

The Secretary-General notes that parliamentary voting held in Zimbabwe on 31 March was conducted peacefully, without the violence that has marred previous elections. He is concerned, however, that the electoral process has not countered the sense of disadvantage felt by opposition political parties who consider the conditions were unfair. He believes the government has a responsibility now to build a climate of confidence that will be essential for national unity and economic recovery in Zimbabwe.

He calls on all sides to engage in constructive dialogue in the period ahead.