Vibrant, exciting campaign for ANC, says Zuma

A mock coffin is carried overhead in the stands at a final ANC election rally in Soweto. Photo: Ben Curtis

A mock coffin is carried overhead in the stands at a final ANC election rally in Soweto. Photo: Ben Curtis

Published May 4, 2014

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Johannesburg - The ANC has had an exciting and vibrant campaign ahead of this year's general elections, President Jacob Zuma said at the party's Siyanqoba rally in Soweto on Sunday.

“We have gathered here today... to declare to the country and the world at large, that the ANC is ready to move South Africa forward,” he told thousands of supporters at the FNB Stadium.

“ANC leaders and volunteers have visited every corner of the country in the past few weeks, humbly engaging our people.”

Zuma said the African National Congress was concluding its campaign on a high note and there was a lot to be proud of.

Earlier, Zuma received a warm welcome when he arrived at the 95 000-seater stadium which was filled to capacity. ANC supporters cheered as he Zuma walked up to the stage both hands raised, smiling and waving.

The last time he addressed a crowd at the FNB stadium he was booed.

Just after lunch time on Sunday there were a number of empty seats at the FNB Stadium compared to earlier.

During his address on Sunday, Zuma went through a number of the party's achievements in government over the past 20 years and in particular the last five.

“The people have told us that South Africa is a much better place to live in now than it was before 1994, thanks to the programmes and policies of the ANC,” he said.

“At the same time, they identified areas of concern and told us where we need to improve, as we deliver a better life for all.”

As the country celebrated 20 years of democracy, Zuma said the ANC was humbled to have led the nation since then.

“We are one nation, born out of the ashes of racial oppression. We are building a common identity. We sing one national anthem, fly one flag and embrace our cultural diversity,” he said.

“While we have done well over 20 years ago, the past five years have also pushed development and transformation forward.”

In 2009 the ANC identified five priority areas - health, education, rural development and land reform, fighting crime and creating decent jobs.

Zuma said the party would continue focusing on these areas. - Sapa

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