UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed Thursday that Egyptians must decide their own political future as he reiterated his call for a peaceful transition to free and fair elections."The Secretary-General has been closely monitoring developments today in Egypt," his office said in a statement issued after President Hosni Mubarak disappointed angry crowds in Cairo by clinging to power.
In an eagerly anticipated announcement, Mubarak said he was handing over powers to Vice President Omar Suleiman but refused to tender his resignation and leave office as the protesters desire."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," Ban's statement said.
"He emphasizes that it is for the Egyptian people to determine their future. The Secretary-General calls again for any transition to fully respect human rights, and to ensure genuine and inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders."Ban's statement said the United Nations stood "ready to assist in the process," and repeated a call on the Egyptian leadership to ensure protesters could voice their grievances without fear of violence.
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