Media Statement
22 February 2016
President Zuma congratulates Mr Faustin Archange Touadéra on winning the CAR Presidential elections
President Jacob Zuma, on behalf of the Government and People of South Africa, has conveyed his congratulations to Mr Faustin Archange Touadéra for winning the second round of presidential elections in the Central African Republic (CAR) that were held on 14 February 2016. The South African Government has, however, taken note that the presidential election result still needs to be confirmed by the country’s Constitutional Court.
President Zuma also conveyed his congratulations to the people of the CAR for coming out in their thousands to vote and for voting peacefully. According to President Zuma: “This demonstrates that the people of the Central African Republic are tired of violence and instability and that they are seeking a better future based on peace, reconciliation, stability and development.” Furthermore, the President added that: “The people of the country deserve nothing less.”
The South African Government acknowledges that the elections were a major undertaking in sometimes very difficult circumstances but commends everyone who made this possible, including the Interim Government of President Mrs Catherine Samba-Panza, all domestic stakeholders, the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN) and other regional and international partners.
President Zuma noted that it would be imperative for the international community through the AU, UN and regional and international partners to continue supporting the reconstruction and development project in the CAR, using the positive energy and foundation created by the elections.
President Zuma concluded by noting his Government’s support to the election effort by way of computers and vehicles donated by the South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and highlighted South Africa’s readiness to support and walk with the people of the CAR on this exciting yet challenging journey towards peace, reconciliation and development.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
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