President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished ailing former president Jacob Zuma, who was freed on medical parole, well.
Zuma was granted medical parole at the weekend but remains in a hospital outside the Estcourt Correctional Centre, where he was serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court.
“The movement notes the decision of the Department of Correctional Services to release former president Jacob Zuma on medical parole,” said Ramaphosa on Monday in his closing remarks of the African National Congress (ANC) Legothla.
“We understand that he is not well, and our thoughts and prayers are with him.”
The president also expressed his condolences to the family and friends of fallen comrades.
“We received the news of the passing away of comrade Kebby Maphatsoe, former NEC member, president of MKMVA and former Deputy Minister and Ms Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi, the leader of the National Freedom Party and former Deputy Minister, with great sadness.” said Ramaphosa.
“Our deepest condolences are extended to their families and loved ones.
“The movement further extends condolences to the families and loved ones of all persons who have passed away since our last meeting. “
The ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) three-day meeting was an opportunity for the party leadership, alliance, and broader democratic movement to discuss challenges facing the country.
The legothla assessed the effectiveness of “plans and programmes” and, where necessary, to change them to meet the needs of the people.
Ramaphosa said: “We have taken a critical and in-depth look at the implementation of our electoral mandate.
“We have identified the areas where progress has been made and areas where there are clear shortcomings.
“We have reaffirmed that the central task of the moment is to create jobs and reduce poverty.”
On local government elections, the president said the ANC welcomes the decision of the IEC to declare the weekend of 18 to 19 September as a registration weekend.
He said his party agrees with the IEC that there is an inextricable link between voter registration and the right to stand for public office.
Ramaphosa added: “Every adult citizen has the right to vote in elections for any legislative body established in terms of the Constitution, and to do so in secret; and to stand for public office and, if elected, to hold office.”
The ANC therefore further welcomes the decision to re-open candidate registration, said Ramaphosa.
“We believe this is in line with constitutional and legislative prescripts,” said the president.
“Let us all go out to serve the people and improve the lives of South Africans selflessly.”
