Pretoria – The Extraordinary Summit of the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, held in Pretoria, on Saturday, commended the Zimbabwean government for extending an invitation to SADC member states to deploy election observers and the manner in which the observer mission has been received in Zimbabwe.
“The Summit encouraged the Government, all political parties and leaders to continue with these commendable efforts which will help realize credible elections,” the communiqué read.
The Summit was also pleased to note that all the political parties in Zimbabwe have committed themselves to ensuring that the forthcoming elections are held in a peaceful environment.
In that regard, the Summit commended South African President Jacob Zuma, who is the SADC Facilitator, for his tireless efforts in ensuring that the Zimbabwe political stakeholders hold successful elections.
“The Summit noted the problems that arose during the special vote on 14-15 July 2013 and would like to commend ZEC for taking these up as challenges to be overcome on the 31st of July, and called upon all political parties to cooperate as fully as possible with ZEC in order to ensure that it is able to meet these challenges,” the communiqué read.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The Summit noted the progress made towards the deployment of the Intervention Brigade in Eastern DRC and commended other Member States for the support rendered in ensuring stability in the country.
“The Summit further noted the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Eastern DRC following the recent clashes and called on the International Community and all partners to assist the general population which has suffered from this conflict,” the communiqué read.
Madagascar
The Summit commended the former President of the Republic Mozambique and SADC Mediator on Madagascar crisis, H.E. Joaquim Chissano and the International Contact Group for their efforts in ensuring the country is brought back to constitutional normalcy.
“The Summit called upon the Independent National Election Commission (CENIT) to come up with a new electoral calendar in order to allow the electoral process to commence as a matter of urgency,” the communiqué read.
The Summit was chaired by his Excellency President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
Madiba, South Africa
The Summit congratulated former President Nelson Mandela for his 95th birthday and wished him a quick recovery.
“The Summit appreciated the support extended to the former President of the Republic of South Africa by the Government and the people of South Africa,” the communiqué read.
The Summit expressed its appreciation to the Government and people of South Africa for the warm hospitality extended to all delegates and facilities placed at their disposal that made the Summit a success.
The Summit was attended by Heads of State and Government or their representatives. These included President of Mozambique and Chairperson of SADC H.E. Armando Emilio Guebuza, President Jacob Zuma, President of Tanzania Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwa Minister of Foreign Affairs in Namibia and the Executive Secretary of SADC Dr. Tomaz Augusto Salomao. – SAnews.gov.za
