UN chief calls on Cote d'Ivoire voters to vote in upcoming election

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Friday called on people of Cote d'Ivoire to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

Cote d'Ivoire will hold its presidential election on the upcoming Sunday in which ten candidates, including incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, are contesting.

The Oct. 25 elections are considered crucial for restoration of lasting peace in the country after the 2010-2011 post-election violence that left at least 3,000 people dead.

"The Secretary-General welcomes the continued commitment of national stakeholders to participate in the democratic process in a peaceful and transparent manner which will ensure that the electoral outcome reflects the will of the people of Cote d'Ivoire," said a statement released by Ban's spokesperson.

Noting that a successful electoral process is the responsibility of all concerned, the Secretary-General "calls on all voters to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election," according to the statement.

"He reminds all political leaders and their constituents to continue to address any outstanding disputes through peaceful means in accordance with the laws and Constitution of Côte d'Ivoire," said the statement. Endit