Ban voices concerns about ongoing political crisis to Egyptian Foreign Minister

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today underscored the support of the United Nations for an Egyptian Government that is fully accountable to its people, while voicing concerns about certain developments taking place in the country.

The crisis in the country escalated last week with the Egyptian military deposing President Mohamed Morsy amid widespread protests in which dozens of people were killed and wounded. The Constitution was then suspended and an interim government set up. Meanwhile, supporters and foes of Mr. Morsy have continued to face off in huge demonstrations.

In his phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohamed Kamel Amr, Mr. Ban expressed deep concern about continued detentions and arrest warrants issued against leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood – the party to which Mr. Morsy belongs – and others.

A read-out of the conversation added that Mr. Ban reminded the Foreign Minister of Egypt's international obligations and the need to fully respect the right to freedom of association, speech and due process.

He also made clear that there is no place for retribution or for the exclusion of any major party or community in Egypt.

In addition, Mr. Ban reiterated his support for the aspirations of the Egyptian people, and called for a peaceful dialogue that includes all parts of Egypt's political spectrum to find a way forward.

Mr. Ban is one of several senior UN officials who has spoken out in recent days on the need for all parties in Egypt – which has been undergoing a democratic transition since the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak two years ago – to exercise restraint, protect human rights and resort to peaceful dialogue to resolve differences.