The United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), on Thursday, 23 April 2015 urged people in Gouegui, near Bangolo, 537 km north-west of Abidjan, to strengthen social cohesion and promote a peaceful electoral environment.



Speaking during the event, Pierre Aby from UNOCI's Public Information Division urged Gouegui inhabitants to work for a peaceful environment for a non-violent presidential election which is vital for social cohesion and peace.



"If you respect the democratic rules, and participate in a fair election, you will be the winner, the real winner. You must help so that democracy can become a reality for the sake of the development of your region," he said.



Sandra Lucette Penan of UNOCI's Civil Affairs Section, for her part, asked women to play a leading role in the electoral process in the village.



"Women should play the role of good advisers and this would help prevent conflict in the village and preserve a peaceful social environment during political campaigns. They should be the ones whose quiet attitude brings peace. They have an important role to play in establishing social cohesion, peace and development," she said.



Esther Esso N'dri of UNOCI's Human Rights Division stressed the fact that everyone had the right to participate in the country's electoral contests.



"Everyone's freedom of movement in different area of your village should be observed during the next presidential election. Everyone's choice should be respected once democracy has spoken," she said.



Pamphile Nibigira of the United Nations police called for a peaceful electoral environment.

"Our contribution as UN Police is to participate in the establishment of peace throughout the territory. I urge you to ensure that peace reigns during the next presidential election," he said, adding that in order to prevent another civil conflict in Côte d'Ivoire, the presidential election must be peaceful.



Speaking on behalf of people in Gouegui, the head of the village, Benoit Touzahouin, promised to create the right conditions for a lasting peace during the presidential election. "We promise to sensitize our people on peace throughout the various campaigns that we are going to launch. We would like UNOCI to always support us in this regard," he said.



During the discussion, the participants condemned the frequent cases of rape of girls and women in the region. They also expressed the need to organize sessions to strengthen capacity of political leaders and opinion, as a prelude to the upcoming elections.