UN chief congratulates new SL govt.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon today called on the new government in Sri Lanka under United National Front (UNF) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe to make further progress on good governance, accountability and reconciliation.

"The Secretary-General applauds the people of Sri Lanka for their peaceful and broad-based participation in the parliamentary elections of August 17," a statement issued by Ban's spokesperson said here today.

The UN Chief commended Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena for having "shepherded an inclusive process" and the Election Commissioner for his exemplary efforts in helping guarantee the right to vote for the people of Sri Lanka.

"The Secretary-General encourages the new government to make further progress on good governance, accountability and reconciliation," the statement said, adding that the UN Chief looks forward to continuing to work with the President, the Prime Minister, the government and the people of Sri Lanka in support of building long-term peace and prosperity for the country.

Sri Lanka's ruling UNF today secured 106 seats in the 225-member parliament, seven short of majority. The island nation's former president Mahinda Rajapaksa conceded defeat.

Rajapaksa said that his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) has won eight districts and Wickremesinghe's UNP has won 11 out of a total of 22. (economictimes)