Mixed reactions from the public on FNB ad campaign: iLIVE

FNB’s 'You Can Help” ad campaign, which features the opinions of young people around the country, caused great controversy with the ANC, the ANC Youth League, the Women’s League and the SACP. Times Media went out to Rosebank to get the opinion of the public.

Most of the members of the public expressed that the ad campaign was relevant to issues taking place in the country.

While most people were in support of the campaign, others felt that the ANC’s reaction to the ad campaign was justified as it was too political.

Stephanie Mulder, 36 years old

“In the beginning I wasn’t sure about the advert, but the impact was when the music played. I like the ad and though it was quite relevant. I think the response by government was a bit stupid. The ANC’s ego was bruised. The ad was specifically pointed at the nation.”

Vincent Mogudi, 33 years old

“The ad is brutally honest as the children were reading their opinion. I think the ANC is too sensitive and blew it out of proportion.”

Clarance Swazi, 24 years old

“There is nothing wrong with the ad, there is something wrong with the ANC. The ad is about what is happening in the country. Citizens are concerned. It appeals to the people in the country. The ANC is being irrational, they taking it out of proportion. The main reason for voting is to secure the future. If they are not doing that citizens are going to raise their opinions.”

Kelvin Ali, 33 years old

“Government is full of nonsense (crap). How many times have they screwed us over? They are innocent children. It’s not directed at the government. The future leaders have voiced their opinions. Now they are being asked to shut their mouth.”

Barbara Arnold, 40 years old

“I thought it was great, lovely and inspirational. I don’t think it should be band. The governments reaction was completely unreasonable, short cited and a naïve approach.”

John Wu

“Freedom of speech is a priority in this country. People should be able to express themselves.”

Sphamandla Mnguni, 27 years old

“I don’t have a problem with the ad. It was interesting, makes people come out of their shell and talk. We are free at the moment. People who were against it didn’t understand the main point of the advert. The ANC were very harsh, they didn’t take it in a good manner.”

Ken Kinsey

“It’s a nice advert, very authentic. They called it treasonous. I think they are over reacting. I’m disappointed.”

Lance Nkwe

“I thought the ad was very uplifting. The ANC should fall back. They don’t have to complain whenever they don’t get it their way.”

Zinzi Jim, 20 years old

“The FNB just wanted to bash the ANC. They advert was not neutral. They led the children on with their questions. The ANC reacted in a rational way. I would have responded the same way.”

Jed

“I haven’t seen the advert but it’s wrong for government to try and limit freedom of expression.”