Dialogue To Stabilize Madagascar

UN Backs Dialogue As Only Means To Stabilize Madagascar

New York, Mar 27 2009 5:10PM The United Nations today reiterated its belief that inclusive talks are the only means to bring about a smooth transition in Madagascar, which saw the resignation of President Marc Ravalomanana earlier this month.

Tensions have risen in the country in recent months, claiming some 100 lives and injuring many others since January, amid a dispute between Mr. Ravalomanana and the mayor of Antananarivo, Andry Rajoelina, who now leads the country.

“The United Nations continues to believe that stability, prosperity and democratic freedoms can be ensured only through a consensual and inclusive dialogue process that would address the root causes of the crisis and would be accepted by all parties,” UN spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters today.

Tiébilé Dramé, the world body’s senior adviser to the African island nation, was in New York this week for consultations and will be returning to Madagascar shortly.

“We will remain engaged through Mr. Dramé to help achieve a peaceful, consensual solution in Madagascar,” Ms. Montas said. “The United Nations is ready to work with the Malagasy parties as well as regional and international partners to reach this goal.”

Last week, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a statement that a “peaceful path” to stability in Madagascar “can only be the result of transitional arrangements arrived at by consensus and enjoying wide support.”

Further, he called on “all parties concerned to act responsibly to ensure stability and a smooth transition through democratic means,” urging all concerned, particularly the police and the army, to “ensure the security of the population and work together toward a non-violent resolution of the crisis.” Mar 27 2009 5:10PM

ENDS

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