Global perspective Human stories

Annan welcomes lifting of state of emergency, release of some prisoners in Nepal

Annan welcomes lifting of state of emergency, release of some prisoners in Nepal

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Though still concerned about the overall human rights situation in Nepal, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today welcomed the Nepalese Government’s decision to lift the state of emergency over the weekend, and to free in the last few weeks several political party leaders and activists.

Though still concerned about the overall human rights situation in Nepal, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today welcomed the Nepalese Government’s decision to lift the state of emergency over the weekend, and to free in the last few weeks several political party leaders and activists.

“These were measures the Secretary-General had urged during his meeting with King Gyanendra” on 21 April in Jakarta, Indonesia, a UN spokesman said in New York.

“While welcoming these initial positive steps, the Secretary-General remains concerned about the human rights situation in Nepal. He urges the release of all those still detained under the emergency provisions as well as the early restoration of civil liberties and multi-party democracy in Nepal,” Stephane Dujarric said.

Mr. Annan remained ready to assist in any manner that would lead to the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Nepal, he added.