Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated the people and Government of Ghana on the peaceful and organized end to their recent presidential and legislative elections.

"Ghanaians can and should take pride in this democratic achievement," Mr. Ban said in a statement issued by his spokesperson. "With their continuing show of commitment to the democratic process, Ghana and its leaders are setting an admirable example."

He noted the dedication and professionalism of the West African nation's Electoral Commission, and commended the political parties and their leadership for their "statesmanlike conduct" during the polls' final stages.