Security Council urges open elections in Africa to restore constitutional order

The Security Council today expressed its concern over the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government in some parts of Africa, and its negative impact on the economic and social welfare of the people and the development of affected countries.

“The Security Council stresses the importance of expeditiously restoring constitutional order including through open and transparent elections,” according to a statement read by Ambassador Vitaly Churkin of Russia, which holds the Council’s rotating presidency for May.

The Council also welcomed the preventive measures taken by the African Union (AU) and subregional organizations against unconstitutional changes of Government.

In addition, it welcomed the efforts of the AU and subregional organizations to promote human rights, democracy and rule of law in Africa.