Question NW2717 to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

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14 September 2018 - NW2717

Profile picture: Mokgalapa, Mr S

Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Whether the Government has a policy on the conditions and/or circumstances under which South Africa is willing to engage with perceived dictatorial leaders in Africa and beyond; if so, (a) do such leaders have to meet any requirements in order to enjoy the support of the Government and (b) did the Government take the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) refusal to permit Mr Moise Katumbi, an opposition party candidate, entry into the country into consideration while planning the President’s trip to the DRC, given that it posed an alleged fundamental threat to democratic processes in the DRC?

Reply:

(a) At the heart of South Africa’s foreign policy since 1994 is the promotion of democracy, rule of law, good governance and observance of human rights. South Africa therefore conducts her bilateral relations with the countries on the Continent and beyond desiring to achieve these objectives.

(b) The Working Visit of the President to the DRC was part of his courtesy visit to the region since he assumed office. The purpose of such visits is to consult on bilateral cooperation and issues of common interest. The matter of Mr Katumbi was part of bilateral discussions during which the Government of the DRC explained their national legal requirements that prevented Mr Katumbi from registering in the national elections. The explanation was noted.

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