Zuma shocked by white poverty
2008-07-24 15:38
Johannesburg - The problems faced in poor white informal settlements were very
similar to those faced by poor black people in squatter camps, ANC
president Jacob Zuma said on Thursday.
Briefing over 100 residents from Bethlehem and other informal
settlements in Pretoria West, Zuma said he was " shocked and surprised"
on his return visit to the settlement.
"I was shocked and surprised when I came here, with the reality
staring at me. The similarities of issues here, I've found in every
black squatter camp." Zuma said.
He said the problems faced included access to water and toilets, and
that he had been "itching" to interact with people on that issue.
"We are dealing with problems that affect our people and they are
problems of life and death."
He said the gathering, organised by trade union Solidarity, was not
a political event despite some election style signs.
"This is not about politics, it's about people who are poor, who are
in need and want to be helped by government." Zuma said.
- SAPA