HispanicBusiness

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is concerned about the violence sweeping through Pakistan just days ahead of the country's elections, Martin Nesirky, a UN spokesperson, said Thursday.

Ban sent his condolences to the families of victims who died in the violence that has targeted politicians and political rallies ahead of Pakistan's national and provincial elections set for Saturday.

"(The Secretary-General) hopes that all eligible Pakistanis peacefully take part, regardless of their religious affiliation, ethnic background, or gender and carry out their civic duty on this important day," Nesirky said.

Ban welcomed the Pakistani government's efforts to provide safety during the elections and to encourage voting, especially among women.

Ban's warning comes after unknown gunmen kidnapped a candidate, who is also the son of former Pakistani premier Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, during an election rally on Thursday in eastern Punjab province.