The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to South Africa visited the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) on the eve of South Africa’s General Elections 2019. The Team was received by the President of PAP, the Rt. Hon. Roger Nkodo DANG, the First Vice President, Hon. Stephen MASELE and other Bureau Members.
Headed by former Tanzanian President, Hon. Jakaya Kikwete, the team expressed gratitude “to see a functional PAP.”
“I am very impressed that the idea of the PAP is working for the continent,” said President Kikwete in a brief audience with the Bureau of the Pan-African Parliament.
“We are impressed with the progress we are seeing here. We are very impressed and proud of our growing institution which brings together African legislators as the quest for a better Africa continues. We appeal to everyone to work hard so that the PAP lives on for the generations to come.”
Meanwhile, President Kikwete applauded South Africa for implementing democracy as the country moves towards hosting its elections.
“SA is the second youngest democratic country on the continent. However, the way they have performed so far as they prepare to hold their elections is outstanding,” he underscored, adding that Africans need to learn from South Africa.
“This is impressive and must be adopted for a better continent. There is no violence but only competition and peace. We are indeed impressed,” he said.
At least ten of the Pan-African Parliamentarians from different countries have been deployed to observe elections in South Africa, as part of the African Union Election Observer Mission.
