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Secretary-General concerned over Niger’s rising political tensions

Secretary-General concerned over Niger’s rising political tensions

Tuareg fighters in Niger have periodically taken up arms to demand more control of the desert
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today voiced concern over heightened political tensions in Niger following the decision by the African nation’s leader to dissolve Parliament.

According to media reports, President Mamadou Tandja dissolved Niger’s Parliament on 26 May, one day after the Constitutional Court ruled that he could not call a referendum on modifying the Constitution so he could run for a third term.

Mr. Ban said in a statement issued by his spokesperson that such developments “come at a time when Niger had made significant progress” in efforts to “consolidate democratic and economic progress” as well as to “resolve the Tuareg conflict,” referring to the clashes in the northern part of the country.

“The Secretary-General urges all parties to act in full respect of the country’s Constitution and to refrain from any action that would undermine Niger’s democratic gains, as well as the stability of the country,” the statement added.

Mr. Ban said he also welcomes the recent initiatives by regional leaders and urged the peaceful resolution of Niger’s current problems.