The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon congratulated the people of Sri Lanka on the successful conclusion of the presidential election.

In a statement released yesterday, he also welcomed the constitutional transfer of power.

The Secretary-General of the UN also applauded the Sri Lankan Elections Commission for its professionalism in ensuring a peaceful and credible election. He also commended the efforts of the candidates, including in particular outgoing President Mahinda Rajapaksa, law enforcement agencies and civil society for upholding and respecting democratic governance.

The Secretary-General said he looked forward to work with President Maithripala Sirisena and the people of Sri Lanka. He affirmed the continuous support of the United Nations for development, reconciliation, political dialogue and accountability in Sri Lanka.

In the seventh presidential election in the country, Sri Lankans elected the “common candidate of the opposition” Maithripala Sirisena with 51.28 percent of the vote. Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa left the official residence in Colombo and arrived at his ancestral home as the results were being announced. The new president took oaths yesterday evening.