ANC 'saves' Bok emblem
Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:13
The ANC on Friday came out strongly in support of the Springbok emblem, saying it did not want to see it replaced.
This follows moves to once again have the leaping antelope Springbok culled as the emblem of South Africa's national rugby teams.
"The ANC would like to state categorically that it would not like to see any replacement or change of the Springbok emblem until sufficient debate and consultation of all stakeholders, including rugby supporters, has taken place," said ANC spokeswoman Jessie Duarte.
"We would also like to encourage our world-acclaimed sportsmen to continue winning more world cups for South Africa and not be detracted by debates on the future of the Springbok emblem."
Duarte was responding to discussions at the National Sports Indaba in Durban where sports portfolio committee Chairman Butana Khompela told delegates on Thursday that the Springbok emblem "divided the country".
"Minister, I want you to observe the arrogance of white people on the Springbok emblem," he said.
Khompela said that there could be "no negotiation" on replacing the Springbok emblem; however, the Democratic Alliance said it saw no need to scrap the emblem.
"Everybody in the country, including those who are not necessarily rugby fans, identifies with this emblem. Every emerging rugby player aspires to be part of the Springboks' legacy," said DA spokesman Donald Lee.
"The emblem is a symbol of excellence, pride and passion. It has been with us through two rugby World Cup victories, and it epitomises the pursuit of excellence not only in rugby but sport in the country."
* Meanwhile, the South African Rugby Union (SARU) said it welcomed the statement of the ANC, outlining their formal position on the future of the Springbok emblem.
SARU President Oregan Hoskins said he supported the ANC's stance in believing that sufficient debate had not taken place for an informed decision to be taken.
"We have noted the concerns and opinions expressed by some delegates at the National Sports Indaba in Durban," said Hoskins.
"But we now believe it is the time to engage with all stakeholders as the ANC has said.
"Rugby believes that the Springbok emblem is actually a force for unity in this country and anyone who saw the tens of thousands of South Africans of all races flock to welcome back the World Cup-winning Springboks last October couldn't help but conclude that the public had voted loud and clear on just what they think about the Springbok emblem.
"We will happily engage with the leadership of our government on the issue and welcome their invitation to involve all parties in the debate."
Hoskins added that the national rugby team would appear as the Springboks on the end-of-year tour of Wales, Scotland and England.
