Ban praises people of Timor-Leste for holding peaceful presidential election

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated the people of Timor-Leste for demonstrating their commitment to democracy and peace by participating in presidential election.

Mr. Ban said he was heartened that yesterday's election was conducted in an atmosphere of order and calm.

“The Secretary-General commends the national authorities, particularly the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and the National Electoral Commission, for organizing and supervising the polling, and the National Police of Timor-Leste for their role in maintaining a stable environment,” said a statement issued by his spokesperson.

He reiterated the continued commitment of the United Nations to supporting the completion of this year's electoral process.

“The successful holding of the 2012 elections would further enable the transition to a new partnership between Timor-Leste and the United Nations,” the statement added.

Timor-Leste is this year also marking the 10th anniversary of its independence. The presidential election will be followed by legislative polls at the end of June.

Last month, the Security Council extended until the end of the year the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in Timor-Leste to continue helping promote peace, stability and development.

Until its expected departure on 31 December, the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) will assist with key tasks such as institutional development and capacity-building of the national police, known as the PNTL, as well as provide electoral assistance.