Former President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, has commended the people of South Africa for their exemplary conduct during the 2024 presidential elections. Kenyatta, who is serving as the head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), praised South African voters for their peaceful demeanor and patience as they exercised their democratic rights.
In a statement issued from Johannesburg, Kenyatta highlighted the significance of the peaceful electoral process, noting that it reflects the maturity of South Africa’s democracy. “The citizens of South Africa have demonstrated a profound commitment to democratic principles by participating in the electoral process with calm and patience. This is a testament to the strength and resilience of their democratic institutions,” he remarked.
The 2024 elections in South Africa have been closely watched, both domestically and internationally, given the country’s pivotal role on the continent. The African Union deployed the Election Observation Mission to monitor the elections and ensure they were conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. Kenyatta’s team, consisting of observers from various African nations, has been active across the country, witnessing the voting process firsthand.
“The African Union is proud to support South Africa during this critical time. The peaceful conduct of the elections is a victory for all South Africans and a beacon of hope for democratic governance across Africa,” Kenyatta stated.
The AUEOM noted several positive aspects of the electoral process, including the efficiency of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in managing the logistics and ensuring accessibility for all voters. Kenyatta also highlighted the role of civil society organizations and the media in providing comprehensive coverage and facilitating voter education.
However, Kenyatta acknowledged that every election has its challenges. The AUEOM will compile a detailed report outlining their observations and providing recommendations for future elections. “Our mission is to observe and support the democratic process, and we will offer constructive feedback to help strengthen electoral practices in South Africa and beyond,” Kenyatta said.
As the nation awaits the final results, the AUEOM urged all political parties and candidates to respect the outcome and resolve any disputes through legal and peaceful means. “It is crucial that all stakeholders uphold the rule of law and contribute to maintaining peace and stability during this period,” Kenyatta emphasized.
The 2024 presidential elections in South Africa mark a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s commendation of the peaceful conduct of the elections resonates with the aspirations of many across the continent who look to South Africa as a model of democratic progress.
In closing, Kenyatta reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting democratic processes across the continent. “The African Union remains dedicated to promoting democracy, peace, and development in Africa. The success of South Africa’s elections is a positive step forward for the entire continent,” he concluded.
