Good morning ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the first UNMISS press conference of 2012.
Let me start by wishing you, the members of the media, a happy and prosperous new year. Your role is key to a healthy democracy and I hope our interactions will help keep the people of South Sudan informed not only about our role but also about the important ongoing work in consolidating a democratic transition. I would like also to welcome and introduce my new Deputy, Mr Raisedon Zenenga. He joined the mission few days ago as Deputy Special Representative (Political) in charge of the political pillar of the mission. Mr. Zenenga has over 28 years of service in the United Nations, government and diplomatic positions. His experience in managing peacekeeping operations in conflict and post-conflict areas constitutes a timely reinforcement and a significant asset to the mission’s leadership capacity.