Free State a cinch, says ANC

2006-02-26 19:54

Bloemfontein - The African National Congress in the Free State ended its local-government election campaign on Sunday with a rally at Botshabelo indoor sport centre, with leaders confident they would make a clean sweep on Wednesday.

While thousands of supporters dressed in party colours sang victory songs, Essop Pahad - minister in the president's office - said he was "absolutely confident" the ANC would do "very very" well in the Free state.

"The ANC is a substantial political force in the Free State."

Free State ANC chairman Ace Magashule was also "100% confident" of the party's success, even in the so-called troubled municipalities of the province.

During his door-to-door electioneering campaign in Bloemfontein at the weekend visiting party national executive member Mathews Phosa also paid tribute to Annie Peters, 89, a struggle hero in Heidedal.

Clenched-fist salute

Throwing out a clenched fist from time to time during the discussion, "Ouma" Peters was visibly impressed by the visit of the party leadership on Saturday.

"I fought for freedom," said Peters, holding her fist up high, to Phosa and Free State Premier Beatrice Marshoff.

Phosa said that for him it was always an emotional moment to meet her generation. "It makes me proud."

Earlier, Phosa met local minority groups to discuss the role they could play.

- SAPA