UN chief hails initial Iraqi parliamentary poll results

United Nations, May 20 (IANS) UN Secretary General Ban Ki- moon Monday welcomed the announcement of preliminary results of parliamentary election in Iraq, and looked forward to the final tally and subsequent timely formation of a new government.

Ban "looks forward to the certification of the final results after all procedures have been completed, including the adjudication of possible appeals", Xinhua quoted a statement issued by Ban's spokesperson as saying.

Final vote tally released Monday for Iraq's April 30 nationwide parliamentary elections showed a strong lead by Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki's bloc, raising his chances to remain on the post for a third term despite fierce opposition and worsening security.

"The Secretary-General urges all political parties to engage constructively and in a timely manner in the process of government formation," it said.

According to the statement, the Secretary-General was also concerned about the security situation in Anbar province.

Ban urged the Iraqi government to ensure that military operations against terrorism are conducted in accordance with the country's international and constitutional human rights obligations.