Annan directs envoy to facilitate political dialogue ahead of elections in Guinea-Bissau

Worried by growing tensions in Guinea-Bissau ahead of presidential elections in two months, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today directed his envoy, João Bernardo Honwana, to promote and facilitate dialogue between all political actors in the West African country to defuse pressures and build a more conducive atmosphere for a peaceful, credible ballot.

"The Secretary-General is concerned by the mounting political and social tensions in Guinea-Bissau as the country prepares to hold presidential elections in June 2005," said a statement issued by Mr. Annan's spokesman.

"These elections are a crucial step toward concluding the transitional process, fully restoring constitutional order and permitting renewed engagement of the country's development partners," the statement said.

It also called on all political actors to participate constructively in dialogue and to refrain from any action or statement that could jeopardize peaceful elections and stability in the country.