The South African Council of Churches (SACC) congratulates the people of Zimbabwe on a peaceful election.

In spite of a number of worrying signs - such as the inability of the SACC and others to secure accreditation for qualified election observers - ordinary Zimbabweans clearly exercised their right to vote with enthusiasm and pride. As we say: "The people have spoken".

Democratic elections are the right of citizens and the mechanism by which they express their ambitions, wishes and aspirations. It is therefore vital that the will of the people be respected. Failure to do so may cause people to lose faith in the ballot as a means of determining the popular will. Everything possible must be done to ensure that democratic processes are credible, legitimate and acceptable to the voters.

The slow and seemingly stage-managed release of Zimbabwe's election results raises concerns. The long delay in the announcement of the results of the Presidential vote is disturbing and may compromise the entire electoral process. Accordingly, we urge the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to release these results now.

While we are aware of the importance of the verification process, it is unacceptable that so much time is spent on verifying the results. The delayed release of the results creates unnecessary tension and insecurity for millions of voters and may undermine their faith in democratic processes.

The ZEC must be seen to carry out promptly and fully the public duties entrusted to it. President Robert Mugabe also has a political and moral responsibility to encourage and support the ZEC to do its work without fear or favour.

Furthermore, the completion of credible elections is but one hurdle that Zimbabwe must clear on the road to peace, justice and economic stability. Given the mandate conferred on the South African government by the SADC Peace & Security Council, we believe it is time for President Mbeki to move beyond his policy of "quiet diplomacy" in Zimbabwe. We urge the South African government to work vigorously to promote the timely publication of election results and to prevent any violence or crisis from emerging in the wake of this historic election.

We salute the Zimbabwean churches who, against all odds, continue to provide hope to the many people who are struggling under the present economic and social conditions in Zimbabwe.

We trust that the political leadership will do whatever possible to find a speedy and peaceful resolution to the instability that plagues our beloved neighbour.

For more information, contact: Mr. Eddie Makue, General Secretary (082 853 8781)