Zuma urges ANC members to look to the future

Zuma's Mauritian case has been postponed

The ANC is calling for unity as the party prepares for next year's elections. The party had been plagued by divisions in the lead up to the Polokwane conference. Speaking at a mass rally in Khayelitsha, ANC President Jacob Zuma says it's time to put the past behind.

The day started with meeting church leaders from different parts of the Western Cape. They raised concerns of being shunned by the previous ANC leadership. The rally, attended by leaders of the alliance in the Western Cape, was held at the local stadium.

This is seen as a start in mobilising members in preparation for next year's elections. Zuma appealed to the members to put their differences behind and move on. "We cannot win the elections in 2009 when we don't see eye to eye, we cannot go the elections crippled, we must be united."

ANCYL rallies behind Zuma
But newly elected ANC Youth League President Julius Malema says the door is open for those who cannot rally behind Zuma. "It looks like the situation in Zimbabwe is resolving itself. If you can’t tolerate Zuma as the President of this country, try next door."

Malema says the corruption trial will not stop Zuma from running for the presidency. Meanwhile, Cosatu Secretary General Zwelinzima Vavi says the ANC must win the elections next year on merit. Vavi says promises of a better life for all must be fulfilled.