2011/2108

In the run-up to Cote d’Ivoire’s legislative elections scheduled for December 11, the United States calls on all Ivoirians to respect the democratic process and go to the polls peacefully. The United States is committed to helping Cote d’Ivoire strengthen its democracy. The success of these elections is an important milestone in Cote d’Ivoire’s progress.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union, the Carter Center, and the U.S. Embassy Abidjan will field observers across Cote d’Ivoire to monitor the voting, tabulation, and transmission of ballot boxes to the local counting centers at the invitation of the Government of Cote d’Ivoire.

The United States calls for calm throughout the entire election process and strongly urges all sectors of society to refrain from violence or intimidation to disrupt the democratic process. We commend the role of the United Nations Mission in Cote d’Ivoire (UNOCI) for its logistical and security support to Cote d’Ivoire during the elections.

We look forward to working with the government and people of Cote d’Ivoire to ensure continued progress and lasting peace for all Ivoirians.