Durban - President Jacob Zuma has pleaded with religious leaders not to pray for the demise of the government if they feel aggrieved by the ANC’s conduct.
Zuma was addressing thousands of Twelve Apostles Church in Christ congregants who had packed the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Sunday. The charismatic church, whose members arrived from all corners of the country and beyond, held an International Thanksgiving Day celebration, which KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu also attended.
Zuma, who was invited as guest speaker, said religious leaders should give direction to the government “in a constructive way, without becoming permanent critics of the government”.
“When we go wrong we need help. We need the church to pray for us, and not the opposition.”
He said the church should also teach people about unity and revive the “an injury to one is an injury to all” slogan.
Zuma said religion should also teach young people about the true meaning of democracy and freedom, as these concepts were being misinterpreted and abused by people who used them to be “rude” to government leaders.
The church’s president, Ceasar Nongqunga, had described EFF MPs as disruptive and rude.
“If you allow disrespect in Parliament you will destroy this country. Respect yourself and elders. This democracy has taught people not to respect,” he said.
However, Zuma disagreed, saying democracy and freedom of speech should not be blamed for anarchist behaviour.
“No. It is people who misinterpret democracy and freedom. We must teach what democracy and freedom are about,” he said.
Zuma said the creation of the ANC was based on principles of the church.
“Leaders of various faiths braved tyranny and persecution as they fought side by side with the liberation movement.
“Now that we have attained our freedom, we still continue to work with the church and indeed all faiths, in the struggle for a better life for all our people,” he said.
The Mercury