We are all conscious of the fact that South Africa is a young democracy, young but vibrant.

The South African Council of Churches and many South Africans are proud of our democracy. We struggled for it; we sacrificed for it; we prayed for it and during this year we celebrated the Decade of Democracy and Freedom. Whilst we have reason to celebrate and a lot to be proud of, we acknowledge that we still have a lot to do as a nation.

Healthy and open debate is an integral part of democracy. There is a range of issues that are proper subjects for debate and reflection as we celebrate the Decade of our Freedom. In the midst of many other debates, the Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu touched on some very important issues during his Nelson Mandela Lecture (23 November 2004).

There is a general acceptance on the need to create and promote space for debate. What the Archbishop said has effect across the political party spectrum.

Our State President, Mr Thabo Mbeki, supports healthy and constructive debate.

As the South African Council of Churches, we encourage the nation to promote a culture of open debate without personality characterization. The media can play a role by resisting the temptation to highlight and sensationalize personal differences, focusing instead on the merits of the debate.

The good thing about this debate is that both the Archbishop and our President agree on the issues raised and also on the need to have further debate on the substantive matters raised during the lecture.

What is in question is the language used during debate. Such language should not distract us from the substance of the debate. Also, we should not allow side issues to divert attention from the essential points of the debate.

In a statement released by GCIS on November 24 Government states that “Indeed, these are some of the intriguing questions that would need to be debated freely and rationally among South Africans. On its part, government does have a view and, in most instances, policies on these matters. The point of public discourse should be to improve on what we are all seeking to achieve: to build a better life for all.”

We share the President’s vision in this regard and look forward to vigorous debate about the most effective, just and humane strategies to achieve that goal.

For more information contact:
Mr Eddie Makue
Deputy General Secretary
Tel 011 241 7809
Cell 082 853 8781