US Midterm elections might not live up to expectations: Mbeki

South Africa’s former president Thabo Mbeki says the outcome of the United States (US) Midterm elections will give an indication on what the world can expect from the two houses, the Senate and the Congress. Speaking exclusively to SABC News on the sidelines of the Africa and African Diaspora Conference in Boksburg, on the Gauteng East Rand, he has, however, warned that the results might not be what many expect. Mbeki says the world is looking to an outcome that confirms Washington’s respect for the United Nations (UN) and international law. He says, “Whatever happens in the elections, to watch what happens in the US after the elections because it may very well be that certain positions, including international positions, may be the same between the Republicans and Democrats; that is why I am saying it is important to see what happens after the elections.” BRAZIL PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION Mbeki also says the outcome of Brazil’s presidential election has renewed hope for countries in the Global South following President Lula da Silva’s return to office. He described Lula as a strong advocate of multilateralism and international law. Mbeki says Lula’s presidency will ensure continuity in relations. He adds: “For many of us here in South Africa, we are very happy with the outcomes of the election in Brazil…We worked with him for many years and one of the issues, as the President of Brazil, he talked to us about is that they need to address the issue of racism. For a long time, the matter was kept under the carpet as though there was no racism in Brazil, but there was.” VIDEO | Mbeki in conversation with SABC News: