Ban welcomes validation of final results in Madagascar’s presidential poll

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the validation of the final results of Madagascar’s presidential election, and called on the new administration to reach out to the opposition and to lead the country in the interest of all its citizens.

“He calls on all candidates to abide by the ruling of the Special Electoral Court and to channel any complaints peacefully through the established legal avenues,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said in a statement issued on Saturday.

Hery Rajaonarimampianina was reportedly announced the winner of the 20 December presidential run-off by Madagascar’s electoral court on Friday after attaining 53.5 per cent of the vote.

His rival, Jean Louis Robinson, who garnered 46.5 per cent, has alleged widespread vote rigging and has said he will continue to challenge the outcome, according to media reports.

Mr. Ban’s spokesperson noted that the closely contested election was assessed as “peaceful and orderly” by international observers.

“The Secretary-General calls on the new administration to reach out to the opposition and to lead the country in the interest of all its citizens. He encourages the political leaders and state institutions to work together toward genuine reconciliation, the deepening of democratic governance and economic recovery.”

The UN, the statement added, will continue its support to development and democratic progress in Madagascar.