Sec. Kerry Issues Statement on Parliamentary Elections in Botswana

Voters queue to cast their votes at a polling station in Gaberone, Botswana, Friday, Oct. 24, 2014. Electoral officials say that voting has begun without incident where analysts believe the ruling party will win despite growing discontent in urban areas. (AP Photo)

Department of State
Washington, DC
October 27, 2014

I congratulate the people of Botswana on their successful national parliamentary elections. International observers have declared the election free, fair, and transparent. I commend all Batswana who turned out in overwhelming numbers to participate in your eleventh parliamentary election since independence in 1966.

The United States and Botswana enjoy a close friendship based on our shared commitment to democracy and the rule of law. I look forward to deepening our relationship with the Batswana people and to continue working closely with the government.