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Niger: reacting to upsurge of violence, Annan urges full respect for constitutional order

Niger: reacting to upsurge of violence, Annan urges full respect for constitutional order

Reacting to the recent intensification of armed clashes in Niger, Secretary-General Kofi Annan today called for upholding the country's constitutional order and resolving differences through dialogue.

"The Secretary-General is very concerned by the upsurge of violence in Niger, resulting from a spate of mutinies by segments of the armed forces in different parts of the country," a spokesman for Mr. Annan said in a statement.

Firmly condemning any attempt to seize power by force - or the use of violence to address grievances - the Secretary-General called for full and unconditional respect for the country's constitutional order, according to the text.

"He supports the Government's determination to pursue dialogue with a view to restoring peace, stability and democratic governance throughout the country," spokesman Fred Eckhard said.