Media Statement
17 February 2015
Minister Nkoana-Mashabane arrives in Lesotho for the launch of the SADC Election Observer Mission
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane arrived in Maseru, the Kingdom of Lesotho, today (17 February 2015) ahead of the launch of the SADC Election Observer Mission, scheduled for Wednesday, 18 February 2015.
Minister Nkoana-Mashabane is representing His Excellency President Jacob Zuma, Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
The SADC Organ is responsible for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. SADC Election Observer Missions play an important role in observing adherence to democratic principles and practices in the conduct of elections in the region.
Following the launch of the SADC Election Observer Mission, it is expected that SADC Election Observers will be deployed to all the districts in Lesotho in preparation for the elections on 28 February 2015.
Following the elections, the SADC Election Observer Mission will, as practice, issue a preliminary statement on the outcome of the elections.
As Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation since August 2014, South Africa has led successful SADC Election Observer Missions to Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia, Mauritius and Zambia. The missions found that elections in these countries were peaceful, transparent, credible, and free and fair, thus reflecting the will of the people.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
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