Machar, S. African official discuss free and credible elections
August 29, 2023 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s First Vice President, Riek Machar and South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile on Tuesday met to discuss prerequisites for a free, credible and transparent election in South Sudan.
The meeting, Mahar’s office said in a statement, was held in Juba, South Sudan.
“The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, the progress and challenges facing the implementation of the of the revitalized agreement, and strengthening economic cooperation between the two sisterly countries,” partly reads the statement.
Machar, it added, also informed the top South African official that both countries share common values and principles, emphasizing the unique opportunity the meeting offered.
He further stressed the need for more collaboration between the two countries.
Mashatile lauded the cordial relationship between his country and South Sudan.
“His Excellency Mashatile emphasized that he journeyed to Juba on behalf of the South African President, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, as a special envoy to track the implementation of the revitalized agreement and assist in resolving challenges that may hinder free and fair elections at the end of the transitional period,” the statement concluded.
In July, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom said Africa’s newest nation could still make significant strides towards this December 2024 target to hold elections with political will, adequate resourcing and a commitment to create an appropriate political environment.
(ST)