MBOMBELA – The Congress of the People has concluded its first National Congress which resulted in the successful election of the party’s executive leadership, including Mr Mosiuoa Lekota’s official re-election as party president.
The more than 700 delegates present at the congress at the weekend, representing COPE’s provincial, youth and regional structures, reflected the opposition party’s unwavering determination to stand strong and mount a serious challenge to the ANC in the forthcoming elections.
Addressing members of the party as well as media representatives,Lekota denied claims that the party was no longer financially viable.
In light of reports that COPE is “broke”, he apologised for the impression created that the party is in a financial crisis.
“This is not the case at all,” he explained, “As with most institutions, we would like to be equipped with the financial resources in order to mount a strong challenge to the ANC in the upcoming general elections.”
He further emphasised that the party’s true value lies in its human capital dismissing perceptions that the party is not financially viable.
“As per the stipulations outlined regarding political party funding in South Africa, the party will continue to obtain funds from its members and from other sources of funding such as business, as well as members of civil society who share our vision for a clean government that is responsive to the needs of our people.
We are resolute,” declared Mr Lekota, adding that there is growing interest in the party from many sectors of South African society with whom COPE’s message and principles resonate.
