'Freedom is dignity'

Palestinian activist Leila Khaled's visit to Soweto yesterday was nearly overshadowed by anti-Economic Freedom Fighters rhetoric.

Clearly still smarting from the EFF's antics in parliament last week, outspoken Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans and Umkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans' Association chairman Kebby Maphatsoe declared war on Julius Malema's party, saying it was "in parliament because of our sweat and blood".

He told a boisterous crowd at the Donaldson Orlando Community Centre: "We're going to instil discipline. There's only one commander-in-chief - Jacob Zuma. Now they've declared war on us and we've been left with no choice but to defend ourselves."

Mostly clad in ANC regalia, the crowd sang struggle songs, some even threatened to beat up anyone wearing a red beret.

Meanwhile, Khaled sat through it all, occasionally clapping. At the back of the hall were posters of Nelson Mandela with his words: "The belligerent attitude adopted by the Israeli government is to us unacceptable."

Khaled, who arrived over a week ago and attended the chaotic State of the Nation address, leaves for Jordan today.

Her visit was to raise funds for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Against Israel in South Africa, a group campaigning for an end of relations with Israel.

Fighting back tears, she said : "The first time I came to South Africa it was very different, sad even. There was no hope.

"Now you're enjoying the streets of Soweto. I feel I'm with my family. You're sisters and brothers. We [Palestinians] were celebrating in 1994 when you got your elections. Freedom is important because it is dignity. Why don't they [Israelis] admit that occupation is terrorism?"