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Egypt: Ban condemns series of terrorist attacks in Cairo

Angry protestors pelt policemen with stones in central Cairo on the second anniversary of the 2011 revolution that ousted long-time President Hosni Mubarak from power.
IRIN/Amr Emam (file)
Angry protestors pelt policemen with stones in central Cairo on the second anniversary of the 2011 revolution that ousted long-time President Hosni Mubarak from power.

Egypt: Ban condemns series of terrorist attacks in Cairo

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the wave of terrorist attacks in Greater Cairo, which reportedly killed at least six people and resulted in a large number of casualties earlier today – on the eve of the third anniversary of the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak.

“No cause can justify such acts of terrorism,” Mr. Ban said in a statement issued by his spokesperson, which also conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims as well as to the Government and people of Egypt.

The statement also called for the perpetrators of what is being reported in the media as a series of deadly attacks to be brought to justice.

Just yesterday, in a statement marking the third anniversary of Egypt’s revolution, the Secretary-General called on all sides in the country to renew their commitment to peaceful dialogue and non-violence based on pluralism with political space for all.

He reiterated the commitment of the UN to support the country in building the future for all Egyptians, with dignity, freedom, responsible governance and development that inspired the uprising of 2011, which toppled Mr. Mubarak nearly three years ago after mass protests.

Last July, renewed protests, in which dozens of people were killed and wounded, led to the military deposing President Mohamed Morsy and the setting up of an interim government. A new constitution was adopted in a referendum earlier this month.

“The Secretary-General encourages Egyptians to rediscover common ground,” the statement said. “In his view, credible parliamentary and presidential elections in a free and open atmosphere are crucial steps ahead in the transition.”

“Protection of human rights – and the rights and participation of women, in particular – is an essential foundation for the future. Political parties must commit themselves to non-violence,” the statement concluded, stressing that a peaceful and democratic Egypt is what the people of Egypt deserve and is critical for the entire North Africa, Middle East region and beyond.