New York

01 May 2014

Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on elections in Iraq

The Secretary-General congratulates the people and Government of Iraq on the holding of the nationwide Council of Representatives elections and Governorate Council elections in the Kurdistan region. He applauds their determination to strengthen the country's democratic process.

The Secretary-General commends the Independent High Electoral Commission for having organized and carried out balloting in a professional manner under challenging security circumstances. He reaffirms the United Nations’ full commitment to support the Independent High Electoral Commission in accordance with the mandate of the Security Council.

The Secretary-General encourages patience while the ballots are counted and complaints adjudicated.