Zuma preaches unity to communists

President Jacob Zuma talked about the importance of unity to a group of communists from around the world attending the 12th international meeting of communist and workers parties (ICWP).

"A majority of communists part ways because once they believe in something they have a culture to believe in it seriously. Unity is crucial," Zuma told delegates representing about 60 countries in Centurion.

Zuma said unity was crucial as it was undermined by one's own ego.

In welcoming delegates, Zuma said their presence in South Africa highlighted a solid defence of progressive movements against any force that sought to undermine it locally and internationally.

He quoted former ANC president Oliver Tambo emphasising a need to defend the national democratic movement.

"Unity should bind the alliance and progressive forces around the world to succeed in implementing a progressive agenda."

He referred to the ANC's tri-partite alliance as being united, saying it would continue to drive transformation in the country by progressive forces.

"It's interesting that ANC leaders articulate about the relationship and see its importance."

The ICWP three-day meeting was the first to be held on the African continent. One question which Zuma said the delegation must answer was why there was still a crisis of jobs even when the economy was recovering.

Over one million jobs were lost in South Africa during the economic downturn.