The South African Government has today, Tuesday, 22 December 2015, announced a donation to the Transitional Government of the Central African Republic of computers and vehicles to assist with the upcoming elections.
The donation of 15 vehicles and 1200 computers follows a request from the Secretary General of the United Nations to President Jacob Zuma for South African assistance. The first round of the presidential and parliamentary election is scheduled for 27 December 2015 with provision for a second round for 30 January 2016. The election follows the recently held referendum to adopt a new constitution for the country.
The Government of the Republic of South Africa joins the Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, in congratulating the people of the Central African Republic for their immense courage in participating in the constitutional referendum despite intimidation and violence. We convey our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have been killed and injured. The South African government rejects any and all attempts to derail the conclusion of the transitional period that comes to an end on 31 March 2016.
The South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is thanked for its generous contribution and steadfast support to the National Electoral Authority of the Central African Republic. The computers have already been transported to Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic, through the kind assistance of the Government of Equatorial Guinea. The vehicles will be transported shortly following the finalisation of the required customs and export clearance formalities.
The South African Government welcomes the strong commitment and desire of the people of the Central African Republic to participate in the upcoming electoral process as reflected in the exceptional registration of approximately 95% of the assessed electorate. This unmistakable clarion call demonstrates a deep yearning for change, peace, reconciliation, security, stability and development. The people of the Central African Republic deserve nothing less given the country’s tempestuous and violent past.
The South African Government reconfirms its commitment to continue supporting the people of the Central African Republic, bilaterally and multilaterally, in their quest for a better and brighter future.
Enquiries:
Mr Clayson Monyela
Cell: 082 884 5974
