President Thabo Mbeki Appoints Minister Charles Nqakula as Facilitator for Burundi Peace Process

TSHWANE - Following a request from the leadership of the East African region of the African Union for South Africa to continue with mediation efforts in Burundi, President Thabo Mbeki appointed Minister of Safety and Security Charles Nqakula as the facilitator of the Burundi Peace Process.

South Africa stands ready to serve the people of Burundi in particular and the East African region in general in the mediation process, as part of the efforts to create a peaceful, stable and democratic Burundi.

In this regard, South Africa is humbled by the invitation and commits itself to work with the regional leadership, the government and people of Burundi and the leadership of the PALIPEHUTU/FNL in their efforts to find a long lasting solution to their current challenges.

Consequently, the facilitator Minister Nqakula will be travelling to Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi from Wednesday 10 May 2006, to consult with all role players including the leadership of the PALIPEHUTU/FNL on a way forward.

In this context, it is envisaged that the regional technical team will be established to provide the requisite support to the facilitator.

From the South African side, Ambassador Kingsley Mamabolo, South African Special Envoy to the Great Lakes, will provide support to the facilitator.

Further information regarding the mediation process, as the need arises, will be handled by the Facilitator's Office.

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

7 May 2006