New York
UN
Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the announcement of the dates for national elections in Sudan
Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement by Sudan's National Elections Commission (NEC) on 2 April that elections will take place in February 2010. The holding of nationwide elections is an important benchmark in the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
The Secretary-General urges the Sudanese authorities to proceed with the necessary preparations in accordance with the timeframe proposed by the NEC, and hopes that the National Assembly will pass all relevant legislation as a matter of urgency. He further encourages all political parties to participate in this historic vote, which will further contribute to the consolidation of the ideals set out in the Interim National Constitution.
The United Nations stands ready to assist the parties in the conduct of free and fair elections.