Media Release

FA200 - 31 December 2002

Kenya Elections

I congratulate the government and people of Kenya on the successful conduct of presidential and parliamentary elections on 27 December.  These elections, which followed an orderly election campaign, are a significant achievement for Kenya, especially as they were held in the shadow of the deplorable terrorist attacks in Mombasa last month.  I note that the Commonwealth election observer group has commended the Kenyan electoral authorities for their professional organisation of the elections.

I also congratulate the new President, Mr Mwai Kibaki, and his National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) party on their decisive election win.  I wish President Kibaki and his new government well in leading Kenya forward.  Tackling Kenya's governance and economic challenges will no doubt be high on the new government's agenda.

As fellow members of the Commonwealth, Australians shares with Kenyans the common values of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights.  Kenya and outgoing President Daniel arap Moi have set an example, including for other African countries such as Zimbabwe, in achieving the peaceful transition of power to new leadership.

Media inquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) +61 02 6277 7500 / Julie McDonald (Departmental) +61 02 6261 1555

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