Ban Lauds Bolivians For Peaceful Referendum

Ban Lauds Bolivians For High Turn-Out During Peaceful Constitutional Referendum

New York, Jan 27 2009

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated the people of Bolivia for taking part at the weekend in a peaceful national referendum approving the amendment of the country’s Constitution.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban said he was following with great interest the political developments in the Andean country, where the referendum included the constitutional expansion of indigenous people’s rights, as well as an extension of presidential term limits.

He applauded the calm atmosphere while the polls were open, and the high level of participation, as a demonstration of civic responsibility.

“The Secretary-General exhorts all political leaders in Bolivia to work together henceforth to build a prosperous and inclusive future for their country,” the statement read, adding that the UN will continue to assist the Government and the people of Bolivia face future challenges.

He also recognized the work of the National Electoral Court of Bolivia in the organization of, what he called, “this important exercise in democracy.”

For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news

ENDS

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