ANC RESPONSE TO PERSONAL ATTACKS ON PRESIDENT JACOB ZUMA BY SOME ELEMENTS OF BRITISH MEDIA

The African National Congress read with dismay the news report about President Jacob Zuma visit to the United Kingdom.  We find it appalling that the media, in particular, Stephen Robinson, would have such a myopic view and disrespect for an official visit of a Head of State to their country.

We are confident that the views by this misplaced journalist does not contain the generally held view of the people of Britain and the government, but it is a view of a fringe rightwing minority who have no respect for international protocol.

The United Kingdom and South Africa have a relationship shaped by politics, commerce, education, culture and, most importantly, by its people.

Stephen Robinson's misplaced and unfair attack on President Zuma's character reflect his short-sightedness and lack of depth - something that can only serve to give journalism a bad name. No amount of sensationalism by Stephen will take our focus away from important and strategic issues which include strengthening of trade and diplomatic relations between South Africa and Britain.

The United Kingdom continues to support development in South Africa, both in the form of official government assistance and through various civil society formations, with the bilateral relationship growing deeper and more meaningful each year.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC national spokesperson, March 3 2010

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter