Secretary-General Welcomes Holding of Niger Presidential Poll amid Security, COVID, while Condemning Attacks against Election Officials

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General commends the Government and people of the Republic of Niger for holding the run-off presidential election on 21 February, despite significant security and humanitarian challenges, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Secretary-General condemns the killing of election officials in the Tillabéri and Diffa regions on Election Day.  He also condemns the sporadic attacks mounted by armed gunmen against election officials in parts of the country.  He conveys his deep condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a full recovery to the injured.

The Secretary-General reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to accompany the Government and people of Niger in their efforts to pursue stability and sustainable development.