Zuma reiterates call on religious leaders not to involve in politics

President Jacob Zuma reiterated on Tuesday that religious leaders should avoid becoming embroiled in divisive party political squabbles.

Religious leaders should ideally strive to be above such squabbles and unite all the people in the pursuit of justice, righteousness and the common good, Zuma said.

Zuma made the statement after being criticized for cautioning religious leaders to avoid being drawn into divisive party political squabbles.

During the annual Twelve Apostles' Church in Christ International Thanksgiving Day celebrations in Durban on December 4, Zuma urged religious leaders to stay out of politics.

This came after the South African Council of Churches called for the ruling African National Congress to convince Zuma to resign due to his alleged involvement in a series of corruption scandals.

"It is the President's view that it would be helpful if religious leaders rose above the mudslinging so that they could be able to mediate and bring about peace where the need arises," presidential spokesperson Bongani Ngqulunga said while explaining Zuma's position.

Zuma understands, appreciates and commends the role that the faith-based community played in the struggle for liberation which led to the dawn of freedom and democracy in the country, Ngqulunga said.

The government also values the role that the faith based sector continue to play in the reconstruction and development of the country and in promoting national unity, said the spokesperson. Endit