afrol News, 17 March - The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has today urged all parties in Madagascar to ensure stability and a smooth democratic transition following the resignation of President Marc Ravalomanana.

Mr Ban's statement has been seen as towing rather the cautious diplomatic line, than an outright condemnation of the shift of power positions in Madagascar, in a military backed opposition take-over.

“This peaceful path can only be the result of transitional arrangements arrived at by consensus and enjoying wide support,” Mr Ban's spokesperson said in a statement.

The statement also added that Mr Ban is “gravely concerned” about the evolving developments in Madagascar, where tensions have been growing in recent months amid a dispute between the President and Andry Rajoelina, the mayor of the capital, Anatananarivo.

“He urges all parties concerned to act responsibly to ensure stability and a smooth transition through democratic means,” the statement said.

“The Secretary-General calls on 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,” it added.

The UN has been trying to help resolve the crisis through the efforts of Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Haile Menkerios, who has been dispatched to the Indian Ocean island nation twice, as well as UN Senior Adviser Tiébilé Dramé.

Today’s statement noted that the UN, along with all other partners, remains engaged to help achieve a peaceful, consensual solution in Madagascar.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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