The ANC calls for war on racism

17 January 2016

The African National Congress calls on all South Africans to declare war on racism and for political parties to refrain from undermining democracy through calls that undermine a democratic outcome. The uninformed call that President Zuma must fall are a ploy to divert a real conversation on racism that finds expression in the comments of a minority belonging to a particular party that is intent of achieving the impossible return to a racist past.

It is incumbent on all South Africans and particularly political formations that we undermine the scourge of racism that reduced our country to a pariah in the standing of nations and a symbol of backward race relations. It is evident that this campaign which is privately sponsored by particular formations can only polarize society resulting in strained relations amongst our people.

Let us in our diversity embrace democratic principles and practices. Our failure to rise to the occasion will result in history judging some amongst us harshly.

The message, judging from recent events, is clear that South Africans will not tolerate foreign behavior by those seeking to reverse our hard won struggles. We encourage our people to undertake an active campaign against racism and those who want to water down democratic values.

Statement issued by Zizi Kodwa, ANC national spokesperson, 17 January 2016