UN chief calls for pluralism to build stable, inclusive democracy in Egypt

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday called on Egyptians to renew their commitment to peaceful dialogue and non-violence based on pluralism, on which a stable and inclusive democracy can be built.

Ban made the call in a statement issued here by his spokesman, as Egypt on Saturday marks the third anniversary of the public movement that ousted former President Hosni Mubarak, when unprecedented massive demonstrations flooded Egyptian cities, with protesters demanding better living conditions and greater rights.

"The secretary-general believes that one of the central challenges moving forward is pluralism: the guarantee that all voices are heard, represented and have a stake in the system, regardless of political or religious affiliation," the statement said, underlining the "crucial need to guarantee the political space on which a stable and inclusive democracy can be built."

Ban encouraged Egyptians to rediscover common ground and to renew their commitment to peaceful dialogue and non-violence. "In his view, credible parliamentary and presidential elections in a free and open atmosphere are crucial steps ahead in the transition," the statement said.

Last July, renewed protests, in which dozens of people were killed and wounded, led to the military deposing Islamist President Mohamed Morsi and the setting up of an interim government. A new constitution was adopted in a referendum earlier this month.

Thursday's statement said that a national independent committee set up for fact finding and gathering evidence about the events of last July "can be an opportunity to combat impunity and to ensure effective investigation and prosecution of those responsible for serious violations of international law."

"Protection of human rights -- and the rights and participation of women, in particular -- is an essential foundation for the future. Political parties must commit themselves to non-violence," the statement said.

Noting revolutions and political transitions are complex phenomena that can take years to play out, the statement concluded that "a peaceful and democratic Egypt is what the people of Egypt deserve and is critical for the entire North Africa, Middle East region and beyond."