Cabinet held its ordinary meeting in Cape Town this morning in Cape Town, 25 June 2008.

Cabinet noted the latest developments in Zimbabwe. The South African government is extremely concerned about the violence taking place in Zimbabwe and affirms its position in support of the United Nations Security Resolution which condemns violence.

The government will continue with its Southern African Development Community (SADC) mandate to facilitate the talks between the Zimbabwean government and the MDC. The South African government is working around the clock, in its capacity as facilitator, to get the parties to agree to a political settlement sooner rather than later. We remain optimistic that a political solution is the only route that will deliver a lasting solution. Government urges both parties to continue to engage in talks to find a political solution that will be in the best interest of all Zimbabweans. We appeal to everyone to give the facilitation process the space it requires as Government believes that only a political settlement will bring about a lasting and peaceful solution.

The meeting noted the recent decision of the German prosecutors not to proceed with the investigations of German companies for their alleged involvement in irregularities regarding the arms deal. Cabinet is concerned about continued speculation in some media which continues to insinuate that the decision of the German prosecutors was due to non-co-operation by the South African authorities. We reject this insinuation completely. A special media briefing will be held soon to present proof that at no stage did the South African government refuse to cooperate with the Germans. The media will be advised of the time for such a briefing.

The meeting noted that President Mbeki had extended the employment contract of the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service [Jackie Selebi] for twelve months, with effect from 1 July 2008. The National Commissioner will remain on leave pending the finalisation and outcome of his court case. Mr Williams will continue to act as the National Commissioner of SAPS. This decision was based on the need to allow due process to be concluded before a final decision could be taken on the future of his employment contract with the State.