Deputy Speaker, the Portfolio Committee on International Relations recommends that the House approve the ratification of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
This is a clear and deliberate decision by the government of the Republic of South Africa to be amongst the countries taking the lead on the continent, demonstrating our commitment to good governance, popular participation, respect for the rule of law and the promotion and protection of human rights.
The charter seeks to entrench and consolidate on the continent a political culture of change of power through the holding of regular elections which are free, fair and transparent, and which are conducted by a competent, independent, impartial, national electoral body. It thus provides for the enhancement of the role of election observation and monitoring in contributing towards the credibility of elections.
South Africa has proudly put in place all the necessary institutions for the effective implementation of this charter. Its ratification, therefore, will confirm our country's resolve to lead by example and encourage fellow African countries to do the same and embrace this instrument. This instrument has the potential to address the political and socioeconomic situation in Africa by deepening peace and security which, by themselves, constitute the necessary preconditions for development, progress and prosperity in Africa. Thank you. [Applause.]
There was no debate.
Declaration of vote