South African Government statement on execution of former Iraqi President, Saddam Hussein

The South African government noted reports of the execution of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, today the 30th December 2006 in Baghdad. From the date of the imposition of the death penalty by the Iraqi court, South Africa had joined the international community in expressing its principled opposition to the application of capital punishment to Saddam.

South Africa remains convinced that he's execution is not the panacea for the current political problems in Iraq but could fuel violence in an already volatile situation.

Accordingly, we reiterate the call by President Thabo Mbeki that despite what happened in the past, the United Nations must get involved to bring about peace and stability in Iraq.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

30 December 2006