Successful Electoral Process in CAR imperative
Statement by H.E. Mr André Nzapayeke, Ambassador of the Central African Republic on the occasion of the celebration of the 60th Independence Anniversary of the Central African Republic
13 August 2020
Dear Honourable Representatives of the South African Government and Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Photo: Ambassador André Nzapayeke pictured at a previous National Day celebration
Allow me to extend my remote but warm greetings to you as the Central African Republic is celebrating its 60th Independence Anniversary on this day.
As we are still confronting the vicissitudes of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is my hope that you and your families are well and in good health. I would also like to salute all the frontliners of this pandemic, especially the doctors, nurses and health workers who are working around the clock to save the lives of COVID-19 patients.
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen
Inaugurated on 30 March 2016, President Touadera is approaching the end of his first term in office and CAR will organise this year presidential and legislative elections. President Touadera launched, on July 1, the registration process for the 2020-2021 general elections and the first round is scheduled to take place on 27 December 2020.
The Government is committed to organise timely elections but the challenges are still huge, from government capacity to security and finances. This is a crucial period for the Central African Republic and we count on all our partners to assist in ensuring a successful electoral process because the future of the country and the region is at stake.
CAR welcomes and encourages South Africa to pursue its efforts to support the stabilization of African States that are still experiencing conflicts, especially at a time when the country simultaneously chairs the African Union and seats as a non-permanent member at the United Nations Security Council.
To my fellow compatriots living in South Africa, I urge you to continue to worthily represent our country in this beautiful land, whose democratic system stability should inspire us.
I wish you all a happy Independence Day in dignity.
To the Prosperity of the people of South Africa and CAR and to the active cooperation between our two countries.
Thank you for your attention.