EYEAFRICA TV: UN Headquarters, New York City: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the situation in Bolivia following weeks of unrest that culminated in the resignation of President Evo Morales.
Morales, whose re-election victory triggered weeks of protests amid fraud allegations, announced his resignation on Sunday after the military demanded his departure.
On Monday, he accepted the political asylum offered by the Mexican government, according to Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard.
“In light of the developments there, including the resignation of President Evo Morales, the secretary-general reiterated his appeal to all Bolivians to refrain from violence and to the authorities to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, government officials and foreign nationals. He also called for respect for state and local institutions, as well as the inviolability of diplomatic missions,” said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson of UN secretary-general on Monday.
Haq said that the secretary-general remains deeply concerned about the situation in Bolivia and takes note of recent developments.
“The secretary-general has urged all concerned to refrain from violence, reduce tension and exercise maximum restraint. Our main priority really is the stability of the country at this time. The secretary-general has called on all actors to abide by international law, notably fundamental human rights principles,” Haq said.
The secretary-general also appealed to all actors to commit to achieving a peaceful resolution of the current crisis, while ensuring transparent and credible elections.
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