With Egypt’s election results in, Ban voices hopes for democracy, stability

Taking note of the official release of the results of the recent election in Egypt, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today voiced his hope that President-elect Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will support the people’s aspirations for a stable and democratic country.

Mr. el-Sisi, the country’s former military chief, was officially declared the winner of the 26 to 28 May election today by the Presidential Elections Commission, which said he received 96 per cent of the vote.

A statement issued by the Secretary-General’s spokesperson said that Mr. Ban trusts that the President-elect “will do everything possible to support the Egyptian people’s aspirations for a stable, democratic and prosperous Egypt.

“The Secretary-General notes that democracy is inextricably linked with the three pillars of the United Nations – peace and security, development and human rights – and urges Egyptian authorities to strengthen democratic institutions and practices,” the statement added.

“He believes doing so is essential for fostering long-term security and stability, by allowing for peaceful political dialogue and contestation, as well as creating a conducive environment for good governance, development, and promoting and protecting human rights.”

The country’s previous President, Mohamed Morsy, was deposed by the military last July amid protests in which dozens of people were killed and wounded.