Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 19 February 2016: The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma welcomes the smooth preparations towards the 21 February 2016 Parliamentary and Presidential Elections in the Republic of Niger. She commends the role played by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Political Parties, Civil Society Organisations and the media in the preparation for the elections.

The AU Commission Chairperson notes that some issues regarding the voting process still persist before reaching the necessary consensus for a smooth conduct of the electoral process. She appeals to all stakeholders involved in the process to work toward agreeable solution to the issues before the elections. Dr. Dlamini Zuma also urges the stakeholders to abstain from any acts, declarations or dissemination of information susceptible to inciting tension that may compromise the serenity and credibility of the elections.

The Chairperson encourages the people of the Republic Niger to turn out in numbers at the polling stations in order to accomplish their civil obligations in an orderly and peaceful manner.

The Chairperson assures the people of the Republic of Niger that the African Union will stand with them before, during and after the elections to reinforce and consolidate their Democracy.