Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
31 May 2002
The Government and people of South Africa congratulate all Lesotho political parties on a peaceful election and the Lesotho Congress for Democracy on its electoral victory in the general elections held on 25 May 2002.
The Government of South Africa commends the people of Lesotho for the exemplary manner in which they conducted themselves during and after the elections. The relevant authorities managed the elections in a very efficient and transparent fashion, enabling the people of Lesotho to express their will through the ballot box in a free and fair manner.
South Africa and the SADC region has awaited with great interest the outcome of the elections, which were held according to the new electoral system that was unanimously adopted by all political parties in Lesotho.
The will of the people has been expressed and allegations of fraud, without any substantiation, and contrary to the views of all the observers, is unacceptable.
The South African Government urges all parties to accept the election results and work together to consolidate Lesotho's democracy and build a peaceful and prosperous future.
The New Partnership for Africa's Development offers excellent opportunities for Lesotho to make major advances economically.
For more information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.