By Celani Sikhakhane /span>
ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe has called on ANC members across the country not to insult Jacob Zuma and his uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party.
Mantashe lambasted members who were carrying a coffin with “RIP Zuma and MK” written on it during the ANC’s Mayihlome Rally at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
“Please comrades, we are not here to insult anyone,” said Mantashe.
In a major show of force, ANC foot soldiers packed the 75,000-seater stadium and an overflow field outside the stadium.
Thousands more were seen shopping in the Durban CBD while others went to the north and south beaches to enjoy themselves along Durban’s famous Golden Mile.
Already on Friday night, thousands of ANC volunteers were on the streets of Durban ahead of the manifesto rally.
ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula said the ANC would fight to retain control of KwaZulu-Natal.
“The province of KwaZulu-Natal holds a very special place in the history of the ANC as it is the birthplace of the founding president of our organisation (Langalibalele Dube), and the birthplace of many of our leaders and activists.”
Minister of Water Affairs Senzo Mchunu said they were happy with the turnout.
“Look what is happening. People have seen the change in their lives, that’s why in KwaZulu-Natal they will still vote for the ANC,” said Mchunu.
ANCYL president Collen Malatji said young people will never forsake the ANC.
“The ANCYL is alive and it is working to champion the struggle of young people in the country. The ANC president is also working hard to make sure that young people’s needs are addressed,” said Malatji.
The Mayihlome Rally was a mixture of political speeches and live performances by top artists, including popular maskandi artists Gatsheni, Mthandeni and Big Zulu.
There was no chance of evading the tight security that has become characteristic of ANC rallies, with hundreds of police officers, metro police and private security forces deployed on the streets.
Pictured above: The coffin that was slammed by ANC national chairperson Gwede Mantashe.
Image source: Celani Sikhakhane
