Ban voices deep sadness after killing of protesters in Egyptian capital
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 10 October 2011 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, Ban voices deep sadness after killing of protesters in Egyptian capital, 10 October 2011, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4e9409d42.html [accessed 25 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. |
Media reports indicate the killings occurred when members of Egypt's Coptic Christian community who had been demonstrating over a recent attack against a church clashed with military forces.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson today, Mr. Ban appealed to Egyptians to remain united and called on the country's transitional authorities to guarantee the human rights and civil liberties of all citizens, regardless of their faith.
"The Secretary-General reiterates his call for a transparent, orderly and peaceful transition that meets the legitimate aspirations of the Egyptian people and includes free, fair and credible elections leading to the establishment of civilian rule," the statement said.
A popular protest movement aimed at greater freedoms in Egypt part of the wider Arab Spring across North Africa and the Middle East toppled the long-standing government of Hosni Mubarak in February.
