Guinea-Bissau: Annan urges all candidates to accept election results

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today welcomed the peaceful conduct of presidential elections in Guinea-Bissau, called on all segments of society to refrain from any statement or action that could provoke tensions and urged all candidates to accept the results.

"He commends the people of Guinea-Bissau for turning out in large numbers to choose their new leader," a statement issued by Mr. Annan's spokesman said of yesterday's vote.

In a report last week on the small West African nation, which has suffered a series of coups in recent years, Mr. Annan noted that tensions over preparations for the elections showed that peace and stability remained fragile and required the continued engagement of all key national and international actors.

The UN maintains a mission in the country – the UN Peace-building Support Office in Guinea Bissau (UNOGBIS).