Zuma rebukes SAfrica government but stresses unity

0 Comments | AFP, January, 2008

PRETORIA (AFP) — Jacob Zuma used his first keynote speech as leader of South Africa's ruling ANC Saturday to rebuke President Thabo Mbeki's failure to narrow the wealth gap, while saying he would not undermine his rival.

In an address to mark the party's 96th birthday, Zuma acknowledged Mbeki had presided over an uninterrupted period of growth but said "serious challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality remain".

Zuma, frontrunner to succeed Mbeki as head of state in 2009 despite the prospect of a corruption trial in August, said measures were needed to ensure the poorest members of society were not left behind, and spoke of plans to make medicine and education more affordable.

After praising the government for bringing about a "significant reduction...