UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan urged on Friday all Congolese, and especially the candidates, to ensure that the coming electoral process is free, fair and open.

In a statement released by his spokesman, Annan welcomes the great strides made by the Congolese authorities, with the support of the international community, in preparing for the elections to be held in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 30.

However, he noted with concern some reports of harassment, of violence around campaign events, and of unequal access to the media.

"It is vital for the country's future that these elections, which are a symbol of hope for the whole of Africa, should be credible and transparent," the secretary-general observed. " History will pass a severe judgement on anyone who tries to disrupt or otherwise undermine the elections."

He therefore urged all Congolese, and especially the candidates, to ensure that the electoral process is free, fair and open.

Annan also reaffirmed that the United Nations will continue its support for the conduct of the elections, and remains fully committed to helping consolidate peace and democratic development in the country thereafter.

Source: Xinhua