Statement in Explanation of Vote by SA Ambassador Baso Sangqu on the Resolution on Libya in the United Nations Security Council, New York, 26 February 2011

Madam President,

South Africa remains deeply concerned at the deteriorating situation in Libya, which has resulted in untold atrocities and countless loss of civilian lives.

The Libyan people, joined by the rest of the international community, have been calling for an end to this indiscriminate use of force.  Echoing this call, the Libyan delegation appearing before this Council yesterday, pleaded for, “a decisive, rapid and courageous resolution” to put an end to the bloodshed and killing of innocent people.

The Council has responded swiftly and resolutely to this call.

Madam President,

This resolution sends a clear and unambiguous message to the Libyan authorities to end the carnage against its people. 

It further complements the decision of the AU Peace and Security Council, which strongly condemned the indiscriminate and excessive use of force against peaceful protesters and called upon the Libyan authorities to end forthwith all acts of violence in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law.

Madam President,

We are confident that the measures contained in this resolution will contribute towards the long-term objective of bringing peace and stability to this sister nation.

South Africa calls on the Government and people of Libya to seek a speedy and peaceful resolution to the current crisis in accordance with the will of the people.

I thank you.

For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria

27 February 2011