Media Statement on the Outcome of the Palestinian Elections on 25 January 2006

The South African Government welcomes the democratic process that took place in Palestine on 25 January 2006, as it is a clear expression of the will of the people. South Africa will continue to work with the Government and people of Palestine as we have done in the past.

The South African government wishes to thank the South African Observer Mission for their work. We welcome their statement that they

". . . congratulate the Palestinian people and all concerned parties on conducting these historic elections. We further wish to commend and recognise the role of the Central Electoral Commission in the technical and legal and procedural aspects of the election.

The experiences and views of the Mission on Election Day affirm that the elections were conducted in an efficient and professional manner. As such, the Mission is joined in a consensus that the elections were peaceful, free and credible, and reflect the will and determination of the Palestinian people to consolidate democracy and good governance in the occupied Palestinian territories."

Commenting on the elections, President Mbeki said that "over these long years we have entertained the hope that the Palestinians would realise their aspiration for the birth of their own independent State within acceptable boundaries, giving them the freedom to determine their destiny".

The Palestine Legislative elections would mark an important milestone in the advance or otherwise towards the attainment of an independent Palestine and an independent Israel co-existing side by side in conditions of peace and mutually beneficial co-operation.

The people of Palestine have elected Abu Mazen, leader of the PLO, as their President. They have elected HAMAS as their majority legislative representatives. Democratically they have constituted the legitimate authorities that must lead them in their continuing quest for an independent state of Palestine, democracy and development."

We welcome the statement of HAMAS leader Ismail Hanniya

"… that the relationship between Abu Mazen and us is based on mutual respect, despite differences... We want to meet him to consult about the shape of the political partnership we can achieve… HAMAS is a Palestinian movement. It is an aware and mature movement, one which is politically open in the Palestinian arena, and to its Arab and Islamic hinterland, and similarly open to the international arena."

We who promote democracy can not afford to challenge the consequences of a democratic process. We must take appropriate measures to create the conditions and climate to bring about the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli crisis.

As before, the South Africa government and people will continue to work with the government and people of Palestine to contribute to their efforts to find a peaceful solution.

Enquiries: Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria

27 January 2006