A three day workshop on consolidating the SADC principles and guidelines governing democratic elections started in Maseru on June 1.

Speaking at the opening, Resident Ambassador, Mr. Rets'elisitsoe Lechesa said the establishment of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation has heralded a very significant and important era in the political history and development of the region. The positive impact of the organ has been felt on the entire continent of Africa and abroad, he said.

The Resident Ambassador highlighted SADC's contributions to the African Union in various capacities, which he said has been noteworthy as evidenced by membership of the Peace and Security Council and Pan-African Parliament.

The year 2004 has witnessed yet another milestone in development within the region, as SADC through the organ, has participated in elections’ observation in some of the member states. This activity has only started and will continue until eternity.

Also speaking at the workshop, Dr Magang Phologane said the organ has played a vital role in removing the brutalities that characterised the SADC region for many years. The process led to freedom and independence of many African countries.

Participants should feel privileged to have been tasked to the noble task to ensuring that there is freedom and transparency in the SADC region elections, Dr. Phologane said.

03 June 2005