20 May 2008
ANC President, Mr Jacob Zuma, is currently in London, where he is attending a Graduation Ceremony of his daughter, Msholozi Zuma.
Prior to his departure, Mr Zuma addressed a meeting in Mamelodi, Pretoria, where he sent a clear message on the issue of xenophobia:
"There is no room for xenophobia in South Africa. The violence perpetrated against foreign nationals is nothing but thuggery and criminality. The police must deal with this matter speedily to identify and arrest the perpetrators."
The ANC President will return on Friday 23 May 2008, where he will attend the National Executive Committee meeting that ends on Sunday 25 May 2008. Mr Zuma is expected to have a short meeting with French President Sarkozy on Thursday 22 May 2008.
ANC General Secretary Mr Gwede Mantashe visited Tembisa this morning to acquaint himself with the conditions faced by the foreign nationals, following attacks by armed gangs. Leadership from the ANC Gauteng Province and members of the National Executive Committee have been deployed to Reiger Park on the East Rand.
Issued by African National Congress
For more information contact: Jessie Duarte on 079 506 6756 or Tiyani Rikhotso on 079 879 7974