ANC: Celebrating 100 Years of Existence

The African National Congress (ANC) held its 100th birthday celebrations from 6-8 January 2011 in Mangaung, Free State, where it was formed in 1912. The celebrations featured events which were attended by among others, sitting and former heads of state, ANC members and supporters from all over South Arica and the alliance partners.

Below are the messages of support to mark the ANC’s centenary:

• President Jacob Zuma Speech
• Zwelinzima Vavi
• ANC Youth League
• ANC Women’s League
• Congress of South African Trade Unions
• South African Communist Party
• Communication Workers Union
• National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa
• Swaziland Solidarity Network

The event also saw former President, Thabo Mbeki, and ANC veteran Ahmed Kathrada, handing over the centenary flaming torch to President Zuma. The torch will be taken around the Free State and to other provinces across the country, when the ANC takes its centenary programme countrywide.

We invite NGO Pulse readers to share their views about the ANC’s centenary celebrations and what they mean to our 17-year old democracy. Comments and articles should be e-mailed to editor@sangonet.org.za.