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Ban Ki-moon calls on Guinea’s Government to investigate recent killings

Ban Ki-moon calls on Guinea’s Government to investigate recent killings

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today voiced “grave concern” about the situation in Guinea, which has been rocked by demonstrations in recent days, urging the Government to investigate killings and prosecute those responsible, including security forces.

“The Secretary-General calls on the Government of Guinea to exercise maximum restraint on its security forces, and urges the parties to engage in dialogue in order to find a peaceful resolution to the dispute,” a spokesman for Mr. Ban issued a statement.

Saying Mr. Ban is “gravely concerned at the excessive use of force resulting in the loss of life in clashes in Guinea,” the statement strongly urged the Government “to carry out investigations into the killings with a view to bringing those responsible to justice, including members of the security forces, and to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of all citizens throughout the country.”

Mr. Ban also voiced hope that a planned visit by leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Guinea “will take place as a matter of urgency.”