UNITED NATIONS: With Egypt bracing for rival rallies on Friday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for "maximum restraint" as he sought the release of ousted President Mohammed Morsi.
In a statement releases by his spokesman on Thursday night, he called on "the interim authorities to ensure law and order along with guaranteeing the safety and security of all Egyptians."
"The secretary-general is following closely, and with growing concern, developments in Egypt," the statement said.
"The secretary-general once again urges all sides to act with maximum restraint," the statement said. "He supports the rights of all Egyptians to hold peaceful protests."
The secretary-general's statement came as tensions were again escalating in Egypt ahead of rival rallies by followers of ousted president Morsi and the Egyptian army on Friday.
"The secretary-general renews his calls for a meaningful national dialogue and an inclusive reconciliation process," it said. "The aim must be to chart a peaceful path toward a full return of civilian control, constitutional order, and democratic governance."
"Mohammed Morsi and Muslim Brotherhood leaders currently in detention should be released or have their cases reviewed transparently without delay," the statement said.
The new Egyptian leaders are pushing ahead with a transition plan for an interim government and fresh elections, but Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood defiantly insists on his reinstatement.
Comments
Comments are closed.