Ban urges continued calm, cooperation as Malawi enters post-electoral period

Now that the results of Malawi's recent election have been made public, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged all parties to continue to call for calm among their supporters and to work together to consolidate democracy in the country.

“The Secretary-General has been following closely the electoral process in Malawi and has taken note of the developments in the past few weeks, including the announcement of results on 30 May by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC),” said a statement issued last night by his spokesperson.

Peter Mutharika has reportedly been sworn in as Malawi's president after the High Court rejected a request for a recount following allegations of vote-rigging in the 20 May polls. Outgoing President Joyce Banda had alleged ballot fraud but has now admitted defeat, media reports say.

Mr. Ban urged all parties to continue to call for calm among their supporters, exercise restraint and respect the Constitution “at this critical juncture.”

“The Secretary-General calls on all candidates, political parties and their supporters to pursue any complaints or disputes arising from the electoral process through the existing legal mechanisms,” said his spokesperson.

“He reiterates his call on political leaders to urge their supporters to work together to consolidate democracy and maintain stability in Malawi.”