PARLIAMENT RECOGNISES ANC CENTENARY

The Office of the ANC Chief Whip welcomes Parliament's decision to recognise the centenary of the African National Congress, which the continent's oldest liberation movement will mark from 8 January 2012. In a historic move, all political parties resolved to endorse the motion to congratulate the movement on this historical milestone during today's sitting of the National Assembly.

The motion, which was presented by Chief Whip Dr Mathole Motshekga, recognised that the ANC's centenary has attracted interest from many people and organisations around South Africa, Africa and the world, particularly those involved in the struggle to eradicate apartheid.

Parliament also recognised that the movement was born out of Africa's battles for liberation and self-determination and that its historic mission, as reflected in the Freedom Charter, has always been to unite all South Africans towards the attainment of freedom.

Parliament's endorsement today follows that made by the African Union earlier this year, in which the continental body congratulated the ANC for its achievement and also called upon the international community to observe centenary celebrations together with the people of South Africa. The AU resolution urged "member states to view the ANC Centenary celebrations as an African event and undertake activities in solidarity with South Africa in this respect".

UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, has also recognised the ANC as more than just a political party. He said: "It is a movement-and a tangible expression of a vision. The commitment and sacrifice of its members led to the emancipation of a nation from a racist colonial rule. This has always been the movement's strength and it is this vision that the world looks to now. The struggle for freedom, justice, human rights and against racism is a global battle. I see the ANC in the vanguard. Not just in South Africa but throughout the continent and the globe."

Statement issued by The Office of the ANC Chief Whip, Parliament, November 15 2011

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