Issued by: Ministry of Provincial Affairs and Constitutional Development
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE BY THE MINISTER AND DEPUTY MINISTER OF PROVINCIAL AFFAIRS AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE CO-CHAIRPERSONS OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS TASK GROUP (ETG), ISSUED IN CAPETOWN ON TUESDAY 11 JUNE 1996
KwaZulu-Natal has the historical responsibility to complete the first process of democratisation in the new South Africa. All the other provinces have now had their local government elections, thus removing the last constitutional obstacle to development programs at the local level. In KwaZulu-Natal it must happen on the 26th June 1996.
We urgently appeal to all involved in this historic event to continue their utmost to see to it that the campaign until the day, and the day itself, is conducted in such a manner that it will be a credit to our new emerging democracy and an inspiration to the international community. The problems we have inherited from the past must now be turned around as common challenges that we accept for the future.
We appeal to the Election Task Groups in KwaZulu-Natal, and all the returning officers and election staff responsible for co-ordinating, arranging and managing the elections; learn from the mistakes of the elections held in other provinces and do all you can to avoid them here. Give us the best technically organised elections this country has had thus far.
We appeal to political leaders, traditional as well as modern, party organisers and officials to set an example of democratic tolerance and mutual respect and to actively encourage each other to observe the Code of Conduct, and to work together to stamp out irregularities and malpractice. Encourage your supporters to fight a fair and free election and to respect the democratic rights of all voters.
We appeal to the voters of KwaZulu-Natal : This is your first opportunity to participate democratically at the local level in the new South Africa. Do so in a manner that will bring honour and legitimacy to your local community. Refrain from intimidation, violence and intolerant behaviour. Let us take our first step on this new democratic road in such a way that we can look back with pride.
We appeal to all the organs of civil society : churches, voluntary organisations, NGO's and peace structures, to assist the throw your weight in behind those who had to manage the elections.
And finally : We appeal to the Security Forces in KwaZulu-Natal: give of your best to make the campaign and election day as trouble free and peaceful as possible, and for everyone to co-operate with them in their efforts.
Let the KwaZulu-Natal elections be the crowning achievement as we conclude the first phase of democratisation in our new country.