Security Council resolution 640 (1989) [Namibia]

Resolution 640 (1989) of 29 August 1989

The Security Council,

Having critically reviewed the implementation process of resolution 435 (1978) since its commencement and noting with concern that all its provisions are not being fully complied with,

Concerned at reports of widespread intimidation and harassment of the civilian population, in particular by Koevoet elements in the South-West Africa Police

Recognizing the efforts being exerted by the United Nations Transition Assistance Group (UNTAG) to carry out its responsibilities in spite of obstacles thus placed in its way,

Recalling and reaffirming all its resolutions on the question of Namibia, particularly 435 (1978), 629 (1989) and 632 (1989),

Reiterating that resolution 435 (1978) must be implemented in its original and definitive form, to ensure conditions in Namibia which will, allow the Namibian people to participate freely and without intimidation in the electoral process under the supervision and control of the United Nations leading to early independence of the Territory,

Recalling and reaffirming its firm commitment to the decolonization of Namibia through the holding of free and fair elections under the supervision and control of the United Nations and in which the Namibian people will participate without intimidation or interference,

1. Demands strict compliance by all parties concerned, especially South Africa, with the terms of resolution 435 (1978) and 632 (1989);

2. Further demands the disbandment of all paramilitary and ethnic forces and commando units, in particular Koevoet, as well as dismantling of their command structures as required by resolution 435 (1978);

3. Calls upon the Secretary-General to review the actual situation on the ground with a view to determining the adequacy of the military component of UNTAG in relation to its ability to carry out its responsibilities as authorized under resolutions 435 (1978) and 632 (1989) and to inform the Security Council;

4. Invites the Secretary-General to review the adequacy of the number of police monitors in order to undertake the process for any appropriate increase that he may deem necessary for the effective fulfilment of UNTAG's responsibilities;

5. Requests the Secretary-General, in his supervision and control of the electoral process, to ensure that all legislation concerning the electoral process is in conformity with the provisions of the Settlement Plan;

6. Further requests the Secretary-General to ensure that all proclamations conform with internationally accepted norms for the conduct of free and fair elections and, in particular, that the proclamation on the Constituent Assembly also respects the sovereign will of the people of Namibia;

7. Requests the Secretary-General to ensure the observance of strict impartiality in the provision of media facilities, especially on radio and television, to all parties for the dissemination of information concerning the election;

8. Appeals to all the parties concerned to co-operate fully with the Secretary-General in the implementation of the Settlement Plan;

9. Expresses its full support for the Secretary-General in his efforts to ensure that Security Council resolution 435 (1978) is implemented in its original and definitive form and requests him to report to the Council before the end of September on the implementation of the present resolution;

10. Decides to remain seized of the matter.

Adopted unanimously at the 2882nd meeting.