Komphela hunts Bok badge ... again
Thu, 09 Oct 2008 18:20
Parliamentary Sports Portfolio Committee Chairman Butana Komphela says the Springbok emblem has divided the country for too long and needs to be removed.
Komphela, speaking at the first day of a two-day National Sports Indaba being held in Durban, not only attacked the national rugby emblem, but was also highly critical of some of the sport's corporate sponsors.
The chairman, in an address to delegates, said that there was "no negotiation" to be had, the symbol just had to go.
"The Springbok divides us. We have a responsibility to unite our country on one national emblem.
"Minister, I want you to observe the arrogance of white people on the Springbok emblem," he said.
Some in the audience supported the call of Komphela and moved for a resolution to remove the emblem as soon as possible.
Sports minister Makhenkesi Stofile, while saying he did believe that ultimately South Africa should have one national emblem which all sporting codes could enjoy, he did not believe it was a matter that should be addressed at this time.
"My view is that emblems are not matters of life and death," said Stofile.
Komphela also had some harsh words for Sharks sponsor Mr Price, saying their decision not to support the "say no to racism" campaign was a very poor reflection on the company.
"Dealing with the legacy of apartheid cannot be dealt with by market forces," explained Komphela.
The South African Rugby Union (SARU) responded cautiously to Komphela's latest attack on the sport, its teams and the union.
"The South African Rugby Union's representatives to the National Sports Indaba in Durban have noted the concerns and opinions of some of their fellow delegates regarding the use of the Springbok emblem," SARU said in a brief statement.
"Those concerns will be reported back to the President's Council for careful consideration."
SAPA
