29 October 2000
After intensive consultations on the latest developments in the Cote d' Ivoire, the Heads of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of South Africa have agreed to issue the following statement:
In the context of the position taken by the OAU Committee of 10 on the Cote d'Ivoire crisis, Presidents Mbeki and Obasanjo reaffirmed the need for political inclusiveness in processes aimed at restoring democracy in the Cote d'Ivoire.
The Presidents observed that the principles outlined by the Committee of 10 to General Guei and leaders of the main political parties in the Cote d'Ivoire have so far not been heeded. Among other things this resulted in the exclusion of many candidates and parties from the recent Presidential elections. This effectively de-ligitimised the election, resulting in only about a third of the electorate participating in the elections.
The Presidents further noted that the potential for violence and instability in the Cote d'Iviore remains.
The Presidents also consider that the interests of the Ivorian people can best be served through the holding of fresh presidential elections, at a date agreed upon by all the parties.
In the meantime, Presidents Mbeki and Obasanjo called for the establishment of a representative transitional government of national unity, whose tasks would be inter alia, to address further constitutional matters, including, problems affecting the security forces and the holding of inclusive Presidential and legislative assembly elections.
The Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of South Africa finally call on all the peoples of Cote d' Ivoire to refrain from further acts of violence, and to collaborate with one another to ensure that peace, stability and security return to Cote d' Ivoire.
Both Presidents are convinced that this approach will lead to a durable peace and stability in a democratic Cote d' Ivoire.
For more information, please contact:
Nazeem Mahatey: 082 367 3820, Communications Unit, The Presidency
Dumisani Rasheleng: 083 709 8166, Media Directorate, Department Of
Foreign Affairs
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