Media Statement
21 July 2017
Conclusion of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ held in Tanzania
A South African Government delegation led by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane has concluded its successful visit to Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, where the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation met on 20-21 July 2017.
Amongst other things, the MCO reviewed the political and security situation in the SADC region and noted that the region remains largely peaceful and stable, not withstanding some challenges in the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
On the situation in Lesotho, the MCO meeting congratulated the coalition Government following the elections held on 03 June 2017 and urged the Government of Lesotho to expedite the implementation of SADC decisions, particularly in relation to constitutional, parliamentary, judicial and public sector reforms.
Regarding the situation in the DRC, the MCO meeting received an update from the delegation of the Government of the DRC in relation to preparations for elections. The meeting also took note of a report by the MCO Troika Assessment Mission to the DRC undertaken in April 2017.
The MCO urged all stakeholders in the DRC to refrain from actions that would undermine the political and security situation in the country. The MCO further urged the government of the DRC and the Independent National Electoral Commission to publicise the revised electoral calendar.
Other members of the South African delegation were Minister Hlengiwe Mkhize (Home Affairs), Minister Michael Masutha (Justice and Correctional Services) and Deputy Minister Ellen Molekane (State Security).
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, 0828845974
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