Annan congratulates Burundi on election of new post-transitional president

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan congratulated Burundi on the election today of Pierre Nkurunziza as the first post-transitional President of this tiny Central African country that has been torn by decades of ethnic war.

In a statement issued by his spokesman in New York, Mr. Annan wished the President-elect success as he faces the challenging tasks ahead, including continuing on the path of major reforms, consolidation of peace, national reconciliation, reconstruction and development.

The Secretary-General also expressed his appreciation to Burundi’s transitional Government and to regional leaders and the international community, who have and continue to play a major role in support of peace in Burundi.

The UOperation in Burundi (ONUB) was established last year to help cement a multi-party, power-sharing government and pave the way to peace in the small nation after years of civil strife.