Issued by: Office of the Presidency
13 March 2002
President Thabo Mbeki is consulting with world bodies and governments over the Presidential elections in Zimbabwe. In this context President Mbeki has already been in touch with the Secretary-General of the UN Kofi Annan, as well as the US Government on the matter.
In this regard, President Mbeki will await reports from the leader of the South African Observer Mission (SAOM), Ambassador Dr Samuel Motsuenyane; SADC; OAU and Commonwealth Observer Missions before making a comprehensive statement on the matter. "It would be incorrect to comment now on whether the elections in Zimbabwe were free and fair", said President Mbeki.
The President reiterates the view that South Africa has an obligation to assist Zimbabwe irrespective of the outcome of the elections. In addition, the Coolum Declaration committed member states of the Commonwealth to assist Zimbabwe in dealing with the land question and economic recovery of the country.
The President is of the view that these matters will continue to define relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
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Ronnie Mamoepa 082 990 4853