Zuma sorry for 'gay' remarks

2006-09-28 15:34

Cape Town - ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma has apologised unreservedly for the pain and anger his recent remarks about gays and lesbians may have caused.

In a statement on Thursday, Zuma said he had noted his remarks at the "Shaka Day commemoration" in kwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday had been interpreted in various ways, and might have hurt and angered the gay and lesbian community.

The remarks were made in the context of the traditional way of raising children, he said.

He had commented in particular about the manner in which communities tended to neglect boys and over-emphasise the traditional upbringing of girls, as evidenced in ceremonies such as the reed dance.

"I said the communal upbringing of children in the past was able to assist parents to notice children with a different social orientation.

"I however did not intend to have this interpreted as a condemnation of gays and lesbians."

The constitution clearly stated that nobody should be discriminated against on any grounds, including sexual orientation, and he upheld and abided by the constitution, Zuma said.

"Our lesbian and gay compatriots are protected by the constitution and I respect their rights, in my capacity as an individual citizen and as a member and one of the leaders of the ANC.

'I apologise unreservedly'

"I also respect, acknowledge and applaud the sterling contribution of many gay and lesbian compatriots in the struggle that brought about our freedom, and the role they continue to play in the building of a successful non-racial, non-discriminatory South Africa.

"I apologise unreservedly for the pain and anger that my remarks may have caused," Zuma said.

Glenn de Swardt of the gay and lesbian association Triangle Project, said in response on Thursday. "We do not accept Mr Zuma's apology.

"His irresponsible statements have already caused considerable insult and hurt to countless people, both heterosexual and homosexual.

"He particularly insulted gay and lesbian people of African descent by saying they were "un-African".

"We need to judge our leaders and public figures by their actions. We thus challenge Mr Zuma to put his money where his mouth is: if he really respects our constitution, which prohibits discrimination and prejudice on the grounds of sexual orientation, he should come out in support of same-sex civil marriage," de Swardt said. - Sapa/News24

- News24