South African Democratic Congress is South Africa's new political force
The steering committee of the weekend's national convention agreed, at its Sunday meeting, on two major issues as mandated by delegates attending the convention: the name and identity of the new formation and the structure of the interim leadership to lead the process toward the launch of the political formation.
The name for the new party, pending successful registration, is the South African Democratic Congress (SADEC). Why this name?
Mbulelo Ncedana, spokesperson of this new political formation, says "The name embodies the newness and change of the South African political landscape. Fifteen years into our democracy, the democratic values espoused in our constitution have become embedded in our national consciousness. All South Africans firmly believe that they can rely on the constitution for protection of their political as well as the socio-economic rights. Irene Grootboom landmark constitutional ruling is one such example. Therefore, these democratic values that are well-articulated in our constitution will be at the core of our political platform; hence our name seeks to identify closely with the constitution."
Furthermore, the name SADEC seeks to provide a political home to a cross section of South Africans, young and old, rich and poor, black and white, men and women, who agree with the set of values articulated in the Sandton Convention declaration. These values are: supremacy of the constitution, social cohesion, equality before the law, and participatory democracy. "It is about you, the constitution, and your country"; says Ncedana.
The congress will also draw on the rich legacy and heritage of the South African struggle. The party regards this legacy as belonging to all South Africans; and will conduct itself in a manner that seeks to protect and enhance this heritage.
Ncedana also says that the committee announced an interim leadership structure to lead the movement toward the launch on December 16. Terror Lekota is the chair; Mbhazima Shilowa, convenor; Charlotte Lobe, secretary; Mluleki George, Treasurer; and nine provincial convenors still to be appointed by the provinces.
Statement issued by Mbulelo Ncedana November 3 2008