BY Obakeng Maje

Aliwal North-ANC honoured one of their former leader,Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki today. The party president Jacob Zuma arrived a the stadium rather with not that much-anticipated reception as the chanting was not high.

The rainy weather might have contributed to that atmosphere and he deliver a Thabo Mbeki Centenary Lecture with confidence.

ANC Women’s League were singing their struggle songs and waving their hands with parallel fingers showing a support of Jacob Zuma second term bid.

“Thabo Mbeki led the country during critical time. To me Mbeki is a brother, a long-time friend and a committed cadre. He served the country selflessly” Zuma said.

“Thabo Meki served the ANC in many big roles including being part of the regime who were in involved in Freedom talks against Apartheid” He said.

Mbeki went to exile and served the African National Congress in different countries and campaigning for the ANC to be unbanned by Apartheid regime.

During his tenure in foreign countries he obtain Degree in Economy and after 1994 democratic election he became the first deputy president.

“Mbeki became the ANC president after Nelson Mandela. He was re-elected for the second term and restore cohesion in bringing the country together” Zuma said.

“He continued to serve in different part of Africa in attempt of bringing peace in the continent. I would like to congratulate Thabo Mbeki also on winning an “African of the Year” accolade yesterday in Dakar” Zuma added.

“Mbeki laid a solid foundation within the ANC. He served the party during hard time and as individual,he also came across few challenges” Eastern Cape chairperson Phomollo Masialle.

“He had some shortcomings like any other individual. So look at the positivity of his achievements. He carried the hopes of the country diligently,committed and with selflessness” He asserted.

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