Motlanthe: Election fever shows a vibrant democracy

The enthusiasm shown over this year’s election should cast no doubt that South Africa’s democracy is alive and well, President Kgalema Motlanthe said on Tuesday.

“Indeed our democracy is vibrant, those doomsayers that have been predicting that our democracy is floundering will be prepared to eat humble pie.”

Motlanthe was briefly speaking to journalists after taking a tour around the election results centre in Pretoria.

After posing for pictures with Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) personnel, Motlanthe commended them for their hard work and reiterated that all state organs were on hand to offer support.

He also wished IEC chairperson Brigalia Bam a happy birthday.

Referring to the overcast weather, he said that in African tradition it was a good omen.

“The rain washes away all the glitches and difficulties, and it melts the heart of those who may want to create difficulties during these elections.

“The results centre has in the past done us proud and we expect no less this time around,” said Motlanthe.

Bam said the IEC was counting on Motlanthe’s blessings.

“It is a good omen that you are visiting the centre on my birthday.”

She said Motlanthe’s presence should assure all South Africans that systems were in place to bring about a free and fair election.

It is tradition that the sitting head of state always visits results centres before elections get underway.—Sapa