On the eve of the presidential election in Mauritania, UN chief António Guterres issued a statement encouraging “the Mauritanian people to exercise their right to vote”, describing the election as “an important step in the country’s democratic process.”
“The Secretary-General calls on all stakeholders to ensure that the polls are conducted in a peaceful and credible manner” said a statement issued by his Spokesperson. “He further urges them to resolve any disputes that may arise through established legal channels.”
It’s expected to be the West African nation’s first peaceful transfer of power, since independence from France in 1960.
Sitting President Mohammed Ould Abdel Aziz is stepping down after serving two five-year terms, since taking power in a coup in 2008, according to news reports.
