Johannesburg - South Africa should celebrate the anniversary of former president Nelson Mandela's release from prison on Monday, by remembering his vision for the country, the DA said.
“We must never forget the wonderful vision of the future and the Constitution which he bequeathed us, and which today is his greatest legacy,” said Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille in a statement.
She said South Africans had to recommit themselves to rebuilding Mandela's vision of a truly united country by bringing an end “to the drift away” created by the current leadership.
“Every South African knows that our country is drifting far from Madiba’s vision of a peaceful, prosperous democracy in which every person has the chance to achieve their potential,” said Zille.
She said President Jacob Zuma and the current leadership did not share that vision.
“They do not believe they are bound by the Constitution in a covenant of service with the people.”
She accused them of lacking the needed interest in solving problems like poverty, unemployment and the erosion of family life.
On Sunday, Zuma visited Mandela in Johannesburg to convey his well wishes.
He said he found Mandela comfortable and relaxed.
“He had the brightest smile, and it was exciting to discuss with him the upcoming state-of-the-nation address and the Afcon tournament,” Zuma said in a statement.
The elderly former statesman has been at his Houghton home in Johannesburg since undergoing an operation last year.
Mandela has a history of lung problems, having suffered from tuberculosis towards the end of his 27-year prison term.
He was released from the Victor Vester prison in Paarl in February 1990. - Sapa