Bloemfontein - Victorious supporters of President Jacob Zuma sang struggle songs and waved posters after he was re-elected as ANC president on Tuesday.
While messages of support were delivered in the main marquee, Zuma supporters continued to celebrate outside.
“We are happy that he retained his position. We are also glad that the NEC went according to our will. There were people who were snakes in the leadership and went about saying things against the leadership of the ANC,” said Sipho Nkosi of Ophongolo, in KwaZulu-Natal.
“It was the media that portrayed (Kgalema) Motlanthe as a formidable force. We, the members knew that he would not win,” Nkosi added.
He said his province had voted for Zuma because he had delivered according to the mandate he received when he was elected president in the 2007 Polokwane conference.
Jessica Ramoroko, 35, of Moretele in North West was also ecstatic.
“I’m so happy. Zuma was the first president since 1994, who came to our rural area. He understands the needs of the people and is a humble man,” she said.
Sombu Ngwenya, 50, of Ekurhuleni could barely contain her excitement.
“He (Zuma) persevered during hard times when (Julius) Malema was insulting him left and right. He never grew hatred against him.
“He has delivered according to the Polokwane mandate so we want him to continue,” said Ngwenya.
Thulani Mavimbela, 36, also of KwaZulu-Natal, said they chose Zuma because of his humility.
“He is the man of the people. He is not pompous,” he said.
Another woman who did not want to be named only said: “We beat them 6-0.” ANC national executive committee member Tony Yengeni said: “These elections were just democracy at play.” - Sapa