Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
The South African Government congratulates the Government and People of Indonesia on the final validation, by President B J Habibie of the results of the general election that was held on 7 June 1999.
The South African Government is particularly pleased at the generally peaceful manner in which the election was conducted. The South African Government further salutes the patience with which the People of Indonesia have awaited the final validation of the election results, almost two months after the election was held.
The election, and its successful conclusion through President Habibie's validation, is an important milestone in the ongoing political reform process that Indonesia has embarked upon. The South African Government believes that the election is a reflection of the spirit of greater democracy that has taken hold in Indonesia.
In this spirit the Government urges the leaders and followers of all political parties, to respect and abide by the outcome of the election.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria
6 AUGUST 1999