"We also welcome the decision by the President to declare a week of mourning starting tomorrow and the flying of our national flags at half mas," the party said in a statement.

"We [are] also encouraged by the decision by Shanduka and Lonmin to pledge financial support for the victims."

The ANC commended the South African media on the way it reported the shooting.

"They managed to highlight pertinent issues without apportioning blame to any parties."

The ruling party called for unity between community members, political parties, religious organisations and NGOs to support the interministerial commission of inquiry.

Minister in the Presidency Collins Chabane will lead the commission.

Other members of the inquiry are North West premier Thandi Modise and the ministers of mineral resources Susan Shabangu, police Nathi Mthethwa, social development Bathabile Dlamini, co-operative governance Richard Baloyi, labour Mildred Oliphant, defence and military veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, health Aaron Motsoaledi, state security Siyabonga Cwele, and home affairs Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.

The terms of reference and members of a separate, judicial commission of inquiry would be announced in a few days, presidency spokesman Mac Maharaj said in a statement.

Chabane's commission would visit Marikana on Monday to help the relatives of the victims.