The return of this many people is a truly remarkable achievement. It is a clear demonstration of the progress made in the Liberian peace process and is a testament to the joint efforts of UN humanitarian agencies backed up by a successful UN peacekeeping operation.

There are no political or any other reasons behind the decision. Had the secretary-general been in New York, then it would have been a New York baby.

Police are trying to do it in a very low-key way to prevent an escalation of tension.