President Thabo Mbeki extends congratulations to Zambia's President Elect Levy Mwanawasa

Pretoria - President Thabo Mbeki today, Tuesday 3 October 2006, extended his congratulations to Zambia's President Levy Mwanawasa, on his re-election following the outcome of the recently held multiparty elections.

The Government and people of South Africa join the international community in welcoming the outcome of the recently held Presidential, Parliamentary and Local elections in Zambia.

The South African Government notes and welcomes the Southern African Development Community (SADC) view that the elections were peaceful, transparent, well-managed and credible and allowed the Zambian people to express their democratic right.

Consequently, the South African Government appeals to all participants to accept the outcome of this democratic process as a true reflection of the democratic will of the people of Zambia.

South Africa expresses its hope that the re-elected Zambian government will use the mandate given by the people of Zambia to continue the pursuit of democracy, peace and sustainable development as part of continental efforts to consolidate the African agenda.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

P/Bag X152
Pretoria 0001

3 October 2006