Mandela praises Zuma as unifier
22/12/2007 14:49  - (SA)  

Mandela health rumours fly No problems with Mbeki - Zuma ANC battle 'only starting' Winnie tops ANC's NEC list Zuma breaks his public silence Jacob Zuma: Key facts Mandela saddened by ANC rift 'ANC must set example'

Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela has praised Jacob Zuma, the newly elected leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), as a man who could unify the divided party.

In a message of congratulations, Mandela said: "Our experience of Comrade Zuma is of a person and leader who is inclusive in his approach, a unifier and one who values reconciliation and collective leadership."

"We have no doubt that he will bring those well-known characteristics to his task of leading our organisation," he was quoted as saying by the Saturday Star newspaper.

Mandela urged the divided ANC to rally behind Zuma.

Zuma ousted President Thabo Mbeki as party leader after their intense rivalry divided the party, which has ruled South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994.

Saddened by divisions in ANC

Before the election, Mandela who decided not to endorse one candidate or to attend the conference, said divisions within the party race were saddening.

He said it was inevitable the results of the elections would be interpreted by some "as an overwhelming victory for one camp or faction over another".

Mandela's spokesperson on Friday dismissed rumours that former president's health has taken a turn for the worse.

Zelda la Grange said her office had been flooded with enquiries.

"Rumours have again surfaced about Mr Mandela's well-being. Mr Mandela is in the former Transkei (his hometown in the Eastern Cape Province) where he is enjoying the festive season with his family," Sapa quoted her as saying.

"He is due back in Johannesburg only towards the end of January."

What is this?    Yahoo    Digg  Del.icio.us  Facebook Brought to you by OUTsurance Car Insurance News24 on mobile News24 on facebook profile