Mbeki calls for unity within ruling party, avoids succession debate

0 Comments | AFP, January, 2007

WITBANK, South Africa (AFP) — South African President Thabo Mbeki called for unity within his ruling African National Congress party while he avoided a sensitive succession debate. "As the leader of the national democratic revolution, our movement must ensure that it remains united around its strategy and tactics, its culture and conventions, and programmes as agreed by our constitutional structures", Mbeki said at a rally to mark the party's 95th anniversary in the eastern town of Witbank.

"The year 2007 is a year for a critical assessment of both our movement and our programme." It was widely expected that Mbeki would say a word on who will take over the leadership of the oldest revolutionary movement in Africa, and his chances of standing for a third term as the leader of...