Ethiopia: Annan condemns post-election violence in Addis Ababa

In the wake of the unrest following disputed elections in Ethiopia, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has condemned the violence in Addis Ababa that resulted in the shooting and reported killing of a number of demonstrators by security forces.

"The Secretary-General is seriously concerned about the tense situation that has arisen due to controversies regarding the conduct of the recent elections," a spokesman for Mr. Annan said in a statement released in New York.

The statement also urged all parties involved to support the efforts of Ethiopia's National Election Board which is investigating the allegations of election irregularities.

"The Secretary-General calls on the Ethiopian Government and the opposition leaders to do everything possible to resolve their differences through dialogue and legal means," the spokesman said.

"The Secretary-General urges the parties to commit themselves firmly to accept the final results that will be announced after the investigation is completed. In the meantime, he calls on all parties for calm, respect for the law and the rights of the people," he added.