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President Mbeki Consults UN, Other
Bodies over Zimbabwe
Release: Immediate
Cape Town
Statement by the Presidency.
President Thabo Mbeki is consulting with world bodies
and governments over the Presidential elections in Zimbabwe.
In this context President Mbeki has already been in
touch with the Secretary-General of the UN Kofi Annan,
as well as the US Government on the matter.
In this regard, President Mbeki will await reports
from the leader of the South African Observer Mission
(SAOM), Ambassador Dr Samuel Motsuenyane; SADC; OAU
and Commonwealth Observer Missions before making a comprehensive
statement on the matter. "It would be incorrect
to comment now on whether the elections in Zimbabwe
were free and fair", said President Mbeki.
The President reiterates the view that South Africa
has an obligation to assist Zimbabwe irrespective of
the outcome of the elections. In addition, the Coolum
Declaration committed member states of the Commonwealth
to assist Zimbabwe in dealing with the land question
and economic recovery of the country.
The President is of the view that these matters will
continue to define relations between South Africa and
Zimbabwe.
Inquiries: Bheki Khumalo 083 256 9133
Ronnie Mamoepa 082 990 4853
13 March 2002
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