Kenya-based UN officials condemn terrorist bombings in Mombasa

United Nations officials based in Kenya and elsewhere today voiced strong condemnation of Thursday’s attacks in Mombasa on a hotel and an Israeli civilian airplane.

“In the name of all UN agencies and staff headquartered in Nairobi and in Kenya, I would like to express shock and indignation at these acts of terrorism,” the Director-General of the UN Office in the Kenyan capital, Klaus Toepfer, said, extending condolences to the victims and their families.

Mr. Toepfer, who is currently on mission in Europe, also voiced hope for a speedy recovery for all those wounded in the bombing of the Paradise Hotel.

The UNEP chief also reaffirmed that the UN will work closely with the Kenyan authorities to ensure security for all.

In a letter yesterday to Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi, the Executive Director of the UN Human Settlements Programme (HABITAT), Anna Tibaijuka, conveyed her heartfelt sympathy “for the human and material losses caused by the vicious and cowardly terrorist bombings.” She affirmed that the UN community stands by the Government “in this tragic moment.”

Commenting today on the events in Mombasa, Mrs. Tibaijuka added that the UN’s mandate is to work towards a more peaceful world, and governments and individuals alike have a responsibility to fight against hate and violence. “Peace must prevail if we are to have a world that is safer and more just, in which we can combat poverty and bring progress to all.”

Meanwhile in Geneva, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Sergio Vieira de Mello, also strongly condemned yesterday’s attacks. Deploring the killing of innocent civilians, he said “such contempt for human life is an outrage.”

Mr. Vieira de Mello repeated his condemnation all forms of terrorism and joined others in extending sympathies to the victims and their families.