Mandela praises Zuma as unifier
2007-12-22 14:49
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."