“In Botswana, our oldest democracy in SADC, we will be able to observe practices honed and developed over decades of democracy. SADC will deploy more than 70 observers across the various districts.

“We would like to congratulate Botswana on its track record to date and its valued contribution to building democratic institutions in the region. We trust that the elections on 24 October 2014 will continue to build on this proud tradition,” she said.

Minister Nkoana-Mashabane, who is heading the SEOM, made the announcement in Gaborone on Friday at the official launch of the SEOM to Botswana.

She said President Jacob Zuma, as the chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has founded the SEOM, which she has been tasked to lead.

Source: South African Government News Agency / Nthambeleni Gabara

Available: http://www.sanews.gov.za/africa/sadc-observers-ready-botswana-elections