President Thabo Mbeki — on behalf of South Africa — has congratulated his Zambian counterpart Levy Mwanawasa on his re-election.
”The government and people of South Africa join the international community in welcoming the outcome of the recently held presidential, parliamentary and local elections in Zambia,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday.
Government had noted and welcomed the Southern African Development Community view that the elections were peaceful, transparent, well-managed and credible, and allowed the Zambian people to express their democratic right.
”Consequently, the South African government appeals to all participants to accept the outcome of this democratic process as a true reflection of the democratic will of the people of Zambia.”
South Africa hoped the re-elected Zambian government would use its mandate to continue pursuing democracy, peace and sustainable development as part of continental efforts to consolidate the African agenda, the department said. — Sapa