Dlamini-Zuma appeals for unity and discipline

The African National Congress presidential aspirant Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma urged members of the party and alliance structures to unite and be disciplined pre- and post- its elective congress in December.

This, at a time of deepening divisions that are said could split the party and after some party Members of Parliament voted with opposition parties in a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma.

Dlamini-Zuma said this at the Alex Stadium during a mini rally of the youth and women’s league. Her ardent supporters were represented by among others, youth general secretary Njabulo Nzuza and women’s president, Bathabile Dlamini. Also present were MK Military Veterans’ Association (MKMVA), Congress of South African Students (Cosas) representatives and a sizable crowd. Conspicuously absent were some of the party’s prominent local, provincial and national leaders, drawing comments that it could be a sign of the deepening divide. Dlamini-Zuma is seen as a front runner for the position along with current Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa. The other contenders are ministers Jeff Radebe, Lindiwe Sisulu and National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete.

Dlamini-Zuma said contesting for positions was part of democracy. “It shouldn’t divide our unity as leaders of society committed to attaining a better life for all. The winner and loser should embrace the outcome and work together to cement party unity inherited from past leaders in the interest of society,” she said.

Punted by other speakers as the leader of choice for the party’s radical economic transformation agenda, she said strong unity was required to drive economic transformation still lagging behind after 23 years of political freedom. “Despite achievements like free and compulsory education, many Africans are still excluded from the mainstream economy. It’s now time to push for total transformation to eliminate poverty and open the economy to all groups, and ensure [there is] equal access to land for all sorts of productive uses, including housing and businesses.”

Seemingly in reference to disgruntled and dissenting MPs, she urged for discipline in carrying out the party mandates, saying it was in the interest of 11 million citizens who voted the party into power.

She said despite many challenges, the government should be credited for its achievements and plans to do more, and to prevent despondency among the youth over unemployment, which would in 10 years, create anger that would affect the country’s peace and stability. She urged the youth to be disciplined, and to balance their rights and responsibilities enshrined in the Constitution. She encouraged students to learn, pass and have careers, to respect themselves and others and to promote non-sexism. She emphasised the right to life and safety; and called for an end to the abuse and killing of grannies, women and girls; and warned against drug and alcohol abuse.

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