ANC does well 'under siege' - Mantashe
28 October 2008, 14:13
The African National Congress and its allies do much better ""under siege"", said the party's secretary-general Gwede Mantashe in Pretoria on Tuesday.
""The most important thing about the new leadership of the ANC is that it is the most scrutinised one, that makes us more stronger because we get different views and we get to know what people want.""
He said the possible breakaway party being formed did not keep them awake at night: ""But what keeps us awake is our ability to deliver to the people of this country.""
Speaking during a discussion on the country's political landscape, Mantashe said the ANC's campaign for next year's elections would be based on its programme, not on a defence against the splinter group.
""We remain focused, embarking on moral regeneration and targeting the young professionals, black and white.""
He said support for the ANC in white communities had increased substantially.
ANC members attending the upcoming convention held by party dissidents would be indicating their intention to join the new movement.
He said former president Thabo Mbeki had written to the party to say he did not bless the initiative: ""I believe what he said in that letter, and I have no reason not to believe him, because he showed his loyalty to the ANC by stepping down with dignity when he was asked to do so by the party."" - Sapa