Electoral workers began counting ballots shortly after polls closed on Sunday, and have blamed logistic problems and heavy rains for delaying the release of an initial, preliminary tally.

Ban appealed on candidates to "play their part in maintaining a calm environment," his spokesperson said in a statement. The U.N. chief also "urges them to accept the proclaimed and certified results, filing any complaints through the legally established mechanisms."

The vote is seen as a critical turning point in Ivory Coast's history. Many hope it will restore stability and reunify the country, but some also fear it could spark more violence if political rivals fail to accept the outcome.

Electoral commission spokesman Bamba Yacouba said authorities at electoral headquarters in Abidjan were "studying and compiling" results from the poll, which are being delivered to the office in the county's largest city from 20,000 polling stations nationwide. No significant tallies have been released so far.

AP