EU roept partijen in Liberia op om te stoppen met aanwakkeren van geweld (en)

Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative

Catherine Ashton on Liberia

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative is concerned about recent incidents of what appears to be politically motivated violence in Liberia. She calls on all the political parties, both their leaders and their supporters, to confirm their commitment to the peaceful conduct of the upcoming elections. The High Representative urges all political parties to make the necessary efforts to ensure that there is a climate of tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful debate, and to refrain from any inflammatory declarations or statements.

The High Representative recognizes that Liberia has gone a long way towards consolidating democracy and stability since the end of the conflict in 2003; it should not let political violence reverse the progress made. Violence and intimidation against political representatives, journalists or individuals threatens Liberian democracy. The EU calls on Liberians and Liberian political parties to show commitment to Liberia by acting democratically, peacefully and with full respect of the Law, in the run-up to Parliamentary and Presidential elections. The EU will continue to support the electoral process and a peaceful dialogue between Liberians from all parties and coalitions."