Ban urges Madagascar parties to act responsibly after President resigns

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged all parties in Madagascar to ensure stability and a smooth democratic transition following the resignation of President Marc Ravalomanana.

“This peaceful path can only be the result of transitional arrangements arrived at by consensus and enjoying wide support,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

The statement added that Mr. Ban is “gravely concerned” about the evolving developments in Madagascar, where tensions have been growing in recent months amid a dispute between the President and Andry Rajoelina, the mayor of the capital, Anatananarivo.

Violence surrounding the dispute led to nearly 100 deaths and many more injuries since January.

“He urges all parties concerned to act responsibly to ensure stability and a smooth transition through democratic means,” the statement said.

“The Secretary-General calls on all concerned, particularly the police and the army, to ensure the security of the population and work together toward a non-violent resolution of the crisis,” it added.

The UN has been trying to help resolve the crisis through the efforts of Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Haile Menkerios, who has been dispatched to the Indian Ocean island nation twice, as well as UN Senior Adviser Tiébilé Dramé.

Today’s statement noted that the UN, along with all other partners, remains engaged to help achieve a peaceful, consensual solution in Madagascar.