Mali: UN chief calls for calm as clashes leave over 20 dead in Mopti
Publisher | UN News Service |
Publication Date | 26 June 2018 |
Cite as | UN News Service, Mali: UN chief calls for calm as clashes leave over 20 dead in Mopti, 26 June 2018, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5b83c714a.html [accessed 27 May 2023] |
Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
26 June 2018
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appealed for calm and restraint in the Mopti region of central Mali, where over 20 people are reported to have been killed in intercommunal clashes over the weekend.
In a statement, on Tuesday, issued by his spokesperson, Secretary-General Guterres also called on all parties in the region "to seek a peaceful resolution" of differences and pursue reconciliation through dialogue.
The UN chief also voiced concern over reports of human rights violations committed against the population by Government forces, including in the village of Nantaka, on 13 June.
"He underlines the need to hold perpetrators of all crimes accountable and to bring them to justice," read the statement, noting that Mr. Guterres welcomed the investigations announced by the Malian authorities and the disciplinary measures taken.
"The United Nations stands ready to assist the authorities," added the statement.
The Secretary-General also underscored the "urgent need" to address ongoing instability in the central Mali, including through the Government's integrated security plan for the central regions, with a view to creating conditions conducive to the holding of peaceful presidential elections in July.