afrol News, 18 July - United Nation (UN) has called for urgent launch of identification process in Côte d'Ivoire ahead of November's presidential elections, also pledging its support to West African nation to conduct the long-delayed polls.

UN Secretary-General's Special Representative, Mr Y. J. Choi said it is essential to begin the identification operations without delay, if the country is to meet deadlines set for elections.

Mr Choi pointed out at logistical challenges and financial constraints, which the country needs to tackle, as well as indicating advances in electioneering.

"These achievements must be capitalised on and contribute to immediate start of the critical identification of voters so that electoral list is available as initially agreed on 30 August," he said.

Côte d'Ivoire has established presidential polls as far back as 2005, but elections were delayed on several occasions due to multi factions between government controlled south and rebels forces in the northern part of the country in 2002.

UN Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) promised to present the mission's plan to help organise the elections within the stipulated deadline.

Special representative also discussed with the country's prime minister nature of UNOCI support to Ivorian initiatives in getting identification process within a short time.

"The mission is ready to provide the appropriate support in this regard in line with its mandate," he said.

Last year's Ouagadougou agreement seems to have paved way for an end to the conflict and included a provision calling for free and fair elections to be held.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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