Annan Pays Tribute To Late Togolese President Gnassingbe Eyadema
Reacting with sorrow to the death today of President Gnassingbe Eyadema of Togo, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi
Annan paid tribute to the West African leader's legacy as a peacemaker.
President Eyadema, who played a central role in the governance of his c
ountry for almost 40 years, "made a significant contribution to the peaceful settlement of disputes in Africa in general
and in West Africa in particular," Mr. Annan said in a statement released by his spokesman.
The statement voiced confidence that the Togolese authorities "will take all necessary measures to preserve stability in
the country and ensure a peaceful transfer of power consistent with the constitution and the rule of law."