Harare (New Ziana) – The Pan African Parliament has conveyed best wishes to the people of the Republic of South Africa as they head to the polls for their 7th general elections on Wednesday.
In a statement on the eve of the elections, PAP president Chief Fortune Charumbira commended all political players for exercising and actively promoting tolerance and respect for divergent political opinions and creating a conducive environment in the lead up to the elections.
He said the Pan African Parliament recognises that periodic elections are a necessary and indispensable element of sustained efforts to protect the rights and interests of the governed.
Charumbira expressed his hopes that the South African elections would be free, fair, and peaceful, allowing the country’s citizens to freely choose their political representatives.
“In that regard, the right of every person to participate in choosing the government of his or her
country, is a crucial factor in the effective enjoyment by all of human rights and fundamental
freedoms.
“We implore the people of South Africa and all political parties to continue with this same spirit
of restraint as they cast their votes tomorrow and, subsequently, while awaiting the results of
the plebiscite,” he said.
The PAP president said he was confident that the outcome of the elections, whose battle was fought in the arena of ideology and not physically, will be a genuine reflection of the will of the people which must be respected.
His message comes as South Africa gears up for what is expected to be a closely contested general election.
The vote will determine the composition of the country’s National Assembly as well as the next President.
Current President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to run for re-election, though he will face challenges from opposition parties seeking to gain ground.
The Pan African Parliament, of which South Africa is a member, has observed elections across the continent and advocated for democratic principles.
Charumbira’s statement is seen as a gesture of continental solidarity ahead of the pivotal South African polls.
New Ziana
