Secretary-General Congratulates People of South Africa on Elections

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General congratulates the people and Government of South Africa on the peaceful holding of parliamentary and provincial elections yesterday, amid reports of high voter turnout.  He applauds the determination of South Africans to participate meaningfully in the democratic system the country has fought so hard to establish, starting with the first multiracial elections 20 years ago.  The United Nations is committed to continue supporting South Africa in its efforts to advance justice and development for the benefit of all segments of society.

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For information media • not an official record