BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan -

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of the Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) Ambassador Miroslav Jenča visited Kyrgyzstan during the constitutional referendum on 27 June. At a meeting with the Interim President Rosa Otunbayeva, he appreciated that the referendum was conducted smoothly and without major incidents in such difficult conditions.

The SRSG took note of the preliminary assessment of international and local observers who have stated that despite certain shortcomings the process was largely transparent. He was encouraged by the fact that despite the tragic events in the recent past and remaining challenges the turnout was solid. This clearly demonstrates the aspiration of the Kyrgyz people for peace, stability and democracy.

The Special Representative underlined the fact that the successful referendum is an important step towards promoting the rule of law and establishing legitimate and democratically elected government in the country.

The UN has provided technical support to the referendum process and constitutional reform. The UN will continue to advise the Government on constitutional reform, building of democratic institutions and organization of the general election planned for the fall of this year.