Ban welcomes ‘peaceful and orderly’ elections in Tanzania

The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon congratulated the people, Government and political parties of Tanzania for the peaceful and orderly manner in which the country held its elections on 25 October 2015.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon congratulated the people, Government and political parties of Tanzania for the peaceful and orderly manner in which the country held its elections on 25 October 2015.

“The responsible conduct of the citizens of Tanzania as they cast their ballots and awaited the results was a concrete manifestation of their commitment to democracy, peace and stability,” said Mr. Ban in a statement issued by his spokesperson in New York.

At the same time, the UN Chief said that he was concerned about the situation in Zanzibar and underscores that any disputes related to the electoral process should be addressed through the existing legal framework in a peaceful and transparent manner.

“The Secretary-General calls on all stakeholders to remain calm, reject the use of violence, and avoid making statements that could further increase tensions,” the statement concluded.

Mr. Ban reiterated these points in a phone call today with the President of Tanzania, Jakaya Kikwete.