60 000 to attend Madiba bash
2008-07-30 07:40
Special Report
Now as much as ever, South Africa needs disciplined leaders, Nelson Mandela has said at birthday celebration in Pretoria.
Pretoria - At least 60 000 people are expected to attend the African National Congress' (ANC) birthday celebrations in honour of former president Nelson Mandela, the party said on Tuesday.
Addressing journalists at Loftus Versveld in Pretoria, ANC head of organising and campaigns Fikile Mbalula said Mandela's 90th birthday celebration would take place on Saturday.
On whether there would be enough seats in the stadium, Mbalula said: "People will be counted in. If the stadium is over-capacitated (sic) there will be big screens (for those left outside)."
"Our security people are ready."
Asked if the party was hosting the function to drum up votes for the upcoming elections, party spokesperson Jessie Duarte said: "The ANC is popular. We believe we should celebrate his life.
"We will make a promise to continue his struggle for freedom," she said referring to Mandela, who turned 90 on July 18.
Various musicians including Thandiswa Mazwai were expected to entertain crowds at the event.
- SAPA