September 27, 2008	Saturday	Ramazan 26, 1429

JOHANNESBURG, Sept 26: South Africa’s first democratic leader Nelson Mandela on Friday congratulated new President Kgalema Motlanthe, saying the country was in “good hands” after a week of political turmoil.

In a letter to the new president who was sworn in on Thursday, Mandela said Motlanthe was “eminently deserving” of the post.

“You are a quiet, firm and principled leader, one who puts reason above emotions and one who seeks to unite rather than divide. We know that our country is in good hands with you at the helm of government.” Mandela also paid tribute to Thabo Mbeki, who was dramatically asked to resign last weekend by the ruling African National Congress before his term ended next year.

He said the achievements of Mbeki’s government were impressive and wished his former deputy and successor well.

—AFP