Yemen: Ban Deplores Killing Of Protesters By Security Forces

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned today’s reported killing by Yemeni security forces of more than 30 people who had been participating in demonstrations in the capital, Sana’a.

“The Secretary-General is deeply troubled by the continuing violence and instability in Yemen,” his spokesperson said in a statement, noting the use of live ammunition by the security forces.

“He reiterates his call for utmost restraint and reminds the Government of Yemen that it has an obligation to protect civilians. He calls on all to desist from any provocative acts that might lead to further violence.”

Yemen has been hit by widespread demonstrators in recent weeks, part of a wider wave of protests across the Middle East and North Africa against long-serving governments. Dozens of civilians have already been killed and senior UN officials, including Mr. Ban, have issued calls condemning the excessive use by security forces.

In the statement today Mr. Ban stressed that he “believes that there is no alternative to an inclusive dialogue on political, social and economic reform to address Yemen’s political crisis and maintain its national unity.”