Election observers applaud SA standards

South Africa sets an exemplary standard for elections, observers to the elections told the Mail & Guardian Online on Wednesday evening.

Only observers from African countries are in South Africa to monitor the national elections.

Observers from the African Union, Pan African Parliament (PAP), Southern African Development Community (SADC) as well as from Nigeria and Zimbabwe came to see whether the elections are free and fair.

"We are not here for an investigation, rather to show support for the process," Dr Salim Ahmed Salim, who heads the AU observer team said.

"There is no reason for concern here. There are strong institutions and great tolerance despite the past. The state of reconciliation that Madiba started in this country ensured this."

"There is also so much enthusiasm by young people. It is an example to other countries on the continent," he said.

Source: Mail & Guardian