Pretoria – Africa is demonstrating signs of a region that is mature and democratic, says International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.
“We are quite pleased to report that in the past eight months, six countries in the region held general elections - all of which were declared peaceful, credible and free and fair,” Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said.
As Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, the Minister said SADC member states continued to hold elections on a regular basis and adhere to the SADC principles and guidelines governing democratic elections.
She was speaking on Monday at the 17th meeting of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
“The Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation is an essential body that is entrusted with the maintenance of peace, stability and security in our region, but also forms an integral part of our efforts towards regional integration and development,” Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said.
She said the region enjoyed relative stability with the exception of a few countries that faced challenges.
“During our meeting, we will receive reports from our officials who have been meeting here for the past three days.
“Their report will cover the political and security situation in the region and other issues,” Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said.
The meeting is scheduled for 20 and 21 July.
The Chair will report to the next SADC Summit, which will be held in Botswana in August. – SAnews.gov.za
