SA: Mandela storms ANC rally

  1. Posted on Monday 16 February 2009 - 09:26
    Mernat
    Image of Mernat
    Mernat Mafirakurewa AfricaNews reporter in Johannesburg, South Africa Photo: Ilvy Njiokiktjien
    Former South African president Nelson Mandela has endorsed the African National Congress campaign dispelling rumours that he no longer supported the ruling party. He joined ANC leader Jacob Zuma at a rally in the province of Eastern Cape in an apparent show of confidence ahead of an April 22 poll.
    mandela_Ilvy_Njiokiktjien.jpg
    This was his first public appearance since retiring from active politics. Mandla Mandela, the grandson, who was speaking on behalf of the Mandela family said: “We are here to dispel any notion by anybody, anywhere, who thinks that anybody within the Mandela family, particularly Nelson, were not supporting the ANC.”

    Mandla told the crowd that Mandela has always fought for justice in South Africa from within the ANC, and would continue to do so. He said the Mandela’s would continue to support the ANC towards winning the upcoming elections.

    Zuma described Mandela as "a legend" and "a living ANC ancestor". "When we met earlier, Madiba said to me he wished to be present in just one ANC rally to greet the people and show everyone that he is still with us," said Zuma.

    Zuma added: "He [Mandela] encouraged us to campaign in these elections in a dignified manner and not talk about other people except the ANC and its policies. They [opposition parties] have nothing else to talk about other than the ANC."

    Elder statesman Mandela, who led his country out of apartheid, has steered clear of politics and power struggles that have hurt the ANC over the past few years. His appearance alongside Zuma will be seen as an endorsement of the man who is expected to become president after the election, despite facing a revived corruption case.

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