Lerato Mbhiza
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his congratulations to the Senegalese President-elect Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his election as the President of the Republic of Senegal.
Faye, a 44-year-old polygamist, won at least 54% of the vote and became the youngest president in Senegal’s history after his rival conceded defeat.
It is the first time in 12 presidential votes held under universal suffrage since Senegal gained independence from France in 1960 that an opposition candidate has won in the first round of voting.
“The Senegalese people have a beacon which will usher in a new hope in the journey of rebuilding Africa by opting for a peaceful change of government as opposed to violence,” President Ramaphosa said.
A statement released by the presidency reflected on the close relations enjoyed by South Africa and its West African counterpart.
“South Africa and Senegal enjoy close political, trade and social relations deepened by strong historical ties rooted in the anti-apartheid struggle. President Ramaphosa has committed to strengthening the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Senegal in pursuit of a better and peaceful continent.
“The outcome of the election bears testimony to the resilient spirit of the Senegalese people, who preferred the democratic course of change of government, through voting. The President applauded the other contestants for displaying maturity in accepting the election outcome,” said the presidency
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