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S. African president vows to fight racism

Xinhua, January 9, 2016 Adjust font size:

President Jacob Zuma vowed on Saturday to fight racism which he said divides the nation.

Those embracing racism and those who are racist live in the past, the president told thousands of people gathering at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, North West Province to mark the 104 anniversary of the ruling African National Congress (ANC).

"It is clear that there is a minority in our country that still harbours a desire to separate our communities and who idolize apartheid era leaders, " Zuma said.

"These people don't represent the true character of the new South Africa,"he added.

South Africa has been gripped by a racial storm sparked by racist comments against blacks. Last week the ANC laid charges against a number of South Africans who have made racist remarks on social media platforms. They include Economist Chris Hart, former estate agent Penny Sparrow and fitness enthusiast Justin van Vuuren.

This came after Sparrow labelled blacks as "monkeys" who were allowed to be released on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day onto public beaches. Her comments went viral on social media and caused a public uproar.

The ANC, which was founded in 1912, wants to use the celebration of its 104th anniversary, to reiterate its commitment to a harmonious society free of the racism.

At a gala dinner in the Sun City Superbowl on Friday night to mark the ANC's 104th birthday, Zuma said it is crucial for the ANC to accelerate economic empowerment.

He said his government will accelerate the pace of economic transformation.

Zuma cited slow economic growth, high unemployment and poverty as major factors that could cost the ANC voter support at the local government elections to be held later this year.

He said redistribution "is a moral imperative".

"We do not accept the notion that we must make a choice between growth and redistribution. They must be pursued simultaneously," he said.

Zuma urged ANC leaders to espouse the values of selflessness and commitment to public service.

"They must be informed by values of honesty, hard work, humility, service to the people. We must reject patronage and corruption and we must work together to defeat corruption,"Zuma said. Enditem