By: Natasha Archary
South Africa has for the third time abstained from voting against Russia at the UN General Assembly. This time, 57 other countries also chose not to vote on Russia’s suspension from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
Russia was however, still ousted from the UNHRC with 93 votes in favour.
The US’s motion to have Russia suspended for human rights violations in Ukraine has been passed.
South Africa’s Deputy Ambassador, Xolisa Mabhongo reiterated President Ramaphosa’s stance that mediation and dialogue is the key to ending the ongoing international conflict.
URGENT🚨
— UN News (@UN_News_Centre) April 7, 2022
The UN General Assembly votes to suspend Russia's membership in the UN Human Rights Council @UN_HRC
In favor: 93
Abstained: 58
Against: 24 pic.twitter.com/6EavdZJspc
In a statement, Mabhongo said there must be a cessation of hostilities, which would be the first step in a comprehensive response to the humanitarian crisis.
“In this regard, we welcome the efforts by Ukraine and Russia to hold talks without preconditions. South Africa expresses the hope that both parties will use diplomacy to de-escalate the situation in Ukraine, leading to a durable political and security situation.”
South Africa has also stressed that it is imperative for all parties of the conflict to allow the Commission to perform its duties without any hinderance and interference.
The country previously chose to abstain from voting against Russia when, Vladimir Putin first invaded the Ukraine last month.
READ | Statement by Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo, Deputy Permanent Representative of South Africa on the Resolution to suspend Russia from the Human Rights Council.#SAatUN @SAMissionNY https://t.co/lW88BEIeHW pic.twitter.com/Z05ed9Ps83
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) April 7, 2022
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