S. African President Upbeat about Local Government Elections

South African President Thabo Mbeki expressed his optimism December 5 about the success of the local government elections and a good voter turnout.

"I think we are going to get a very good day," he said after casting his ballot in Hatfield, Pretoria.

Widespread participation in the election is important, as it is necessary to have a good start for the new system of local government resulting from the demarcation process, said Mbeki, who is also president of the ruling African National Congress.

Deputy President Jacob Zuma, who voted just after Mbeki, said election campaigning has been very peaceful, adding: "There is no reason why voting will not go smoothly and peacefully."

South Africans are going to the polls in 284 municipalities earlier Tuesday to elect councilors for a new system of local governments.

People's Daily Online --- http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/