UN chief asks for peaceful atmosphere in Burundi after declaration of election results

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday asked for a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere in Burundi after the final results of the presidential poll were declared, said his spokesman.

The secretary-general takes note of the final results of the presidential and legislative elections, as declared on Thursday by the Constitutional Court of Burundi, said Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman, in a statement.

"The secretary-general encourages all parties to continue to promote a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere among all Burundians. He reiterates the UN commitment toward long-term stability and sustainable development in Burundi," said the statement.

Burundi's Constitutional Court on Thursday upheld the May 20 presidential poll results which showed Evariste Ndayishimiye of the ruling party as the winner. The ruling paves the way for Ndayishimiye to succeed current president Pierre Nkurunziza, who has been in power since 2005. (Xinhua)