ACCESSION NUMBER:305169

FILE ID:TXT201

DATE:09/28/93

TITLE:NICARAGUA MUST MOVE TOWARD RECONCILIATION (09/28/93)

TEXT:*93092801.TXT

NICARAGUA MUST MOVE TOWARD RECONCILIATION



(VOA Editorial)  (310)

(Following is an editorial, broadcast by the Voice of America September 28,

reflecting the views of the U.S. government.)



The people of Nicaragua are celebrating the 155th anniversary of their

national independence this month.  The United States offers the hope that

the leaders of the country's political factions mark the occasion by

affirming their intention to pursue national reconciliation.



The United States recognizes that Nicaragua has undergone a difficult

transition since President Violetta Chamorro was elected in 1990.  And it

1s clear that significant efforts to promote national reconciliation have

been made.  Only such reconciliation can end Nicaragua's political violence

and polarization and bring about renewed economic growth and development.



That is why the United States has encouraged the Nicaraguan government, the

National Opposition Union and the Sandinista Front to pursue a dialogue.

All political parties in Nicaragua have a legitimate role to play in

strengthening the democratic process, as long as the authority of the

democratically elected president is accepted.



In this regard, the United States commends President Chamorro for her recent

move to assert civilian control over the military and intelligence

services.  Her plan is consistent with her electoral mandate and is

essential for the consolidation of constitutional government in Nicaragua.

Only when the rule of law and civilian authority over the security forces

are established can true national reconciliation take place.  The United

States calls on the leadership of the security services to assist in

carrying out President Chamorro's decisions in an orderly and peaceful

manner.



When he visited the country in June, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Clifton

Wharton made a special appeal to Nicaraguans to join together in an effort

to resolve the issues that divide them.  As Deputy Secretary of State

Wharton said, "The search for a democratic consensus deserves the support

of all Nicaraguans of good will."



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