Note to editors: This is a re-release of the statement sent out yesterday.

On behalf of the Democratic Alliance (DA) I extend my sincere congratulations to the African National Congress (ANC) and its leader, President Zuma, on reaching this impressive milestone.

These 100 years show an extraordinary record, without parallel on the continent of Africa. If the ANC is saying this is much more than a celebration of the 100th birthday of a political party, we agree. It represents a history of progress, a quest for human rights and the advent of democracy after a long, arduous struggle that took over 80 years.

A hundred years is a long time. Governments have changed. New leaders have emerged, and the ANC has sought to change its character from a liberation movement to a ruling party. The sacrifices of countless ANC members and leaders played a major role in ending Apartheid and the DA applauds these contributions.

The values espoused by the father of the New South Africa, Nelson Mandela, still resonate strongly with the people of this country. His humane, non-racial vision of equality for all under a democratic system - now guaranteed in the Constitution - led our country out of the dark days of repression and put us firmly on the path to freedom. The DA believes that these values are timeless.

The Centenary is a worthy opportunity for celebration; however, this historic event also calls for introspection and reflection. Without the values articulated by Nelson Mandela, the ANC risks becoming a rudderless vessel. As the ANC celebrates its centenary, the time is right to retain the best of the past, and move boldly into a future for all South Africans.

Statement issued by Helen Zille, Leader of the Democratic Alliance, January 8 2012

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