SECRETARY-GENERAL HOPES FOR PEACEFUL DEMOCRATIC EXERCISE IN TIMOR-LESTE POLLS

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message ahead of parliamentary elections in Timor-Leste to be held on 30 June:

On 30 June, you will once again have the opportunity to exercise your democratic right, as you choose your country’s new leaders in parliamentary elections.

In the presidential elections of April and May, you impressed the world with the high voter turnout and peaceful conduct of the polls.  I was moved by the graceful transfer of responsibility from the first President to his successor, through the freely expressed will of the people.  I congratulate the authorities of Timor-Leste and United Nations personnel present in the country on their efforts.

I hope that, on Saturday, you will once again demonstrate your determination to see genuine multiparty democracy prevail in your young nation.  I call on candidates and their supporters to react to the results in a peaceful manner, and to raise any concerns they may have about the process through the appropriate legal channels.

The United Nations will continue to steadfastly support your country as you consolidate the foundations of democratic governance to ensure enduring stability and development.

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