SOUTH AFRICA BACKS SWAZI ELECTION

Times of Swaziland

8 August 2008

SD general elections

By WELCOME DLAMINI

LOZITHA – The South African government has thrown its full weight in support of Swaziland’s 2008 general elections.

Newly appointed South African High Commissioner to the Kingdom Reddy Mampane yesterday assured His Majesty King Mswati III "of South Africa’s support regarding the forthcoming general elections in Swaziland".

This comes in the wake of civil organisations challenging the election process in court for being against constitutional dictates.

Presenting his credentials to the King, Mampane said South Africa, SADC and the AU as well as the International Community are keenly following the political reforms in Swaziland as embodied in the new constitution. "Since the independence of Swaziland in 1968, the country has had to meet and face a number of political and economic challenges. The Kingdom has however made progress towards the constitution," the envoy stated.

The South African envoy also passed his country’s wishes to His Majesty and the nation for a successful 40/40 celebration.

In response the king said a lot of enthusiasm has been shown by the country’s citizens towards the elections as exhibited during the nomination process.

Link http://www.times.co.sz/News/458.html