Statement on Cabinet meeting of 19 February 2004

19 February 2004

At its meeting yesterday (18 February), Cabinet received a detailed briefing on security preparations to ensure free and fair elections.

The meeting noted that, in the main, no serious problems had been identified that would prevent a smooth electoral process. It expressed its appreciation of the work that had been done to deal with any contingencies, and agreed that, where any violation of the law took place, firm and urgent steps should be taken to bring perpetrators to book.

In order to ensure that all citizens are able to cast their vote, Cabinet concurred that the President should declare 14 April 2004 a national public holiday, in terms of the Public Holidays Act of 1994.

The meeting approved the ratification of the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption. It also agreed that South Africa should re-accede to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine under the new revised statute of the organisation.

Having noted the completion of the process of transforming National Orders, Cabinet agreed that Awards Ceremonies should be arranged as follows:
 

• Orders of Mapungubwe, Luthuli and the Baobab would be announced and awarded around Freedom Day of each year
• Order of Ikhamanga would be awarded around Heritage Day
• Order of the Mendi Decoration for Bravery and Order of the Companions of OR Tambo would be awarded when worthy recipients are identified.

Two Deputy Directors-General were appointed in the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

Enquiries
Joel Netshitenzhe
Cell: 082 900 0083

Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)

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