Leaders of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) met for an hour this morning at Khotso House in Johannesburg. Participants included NUM President Senzeni Zokwana, NUM General Secretary Frans Baleni, SACC General Secretary Eddie Makue, and Ecumenical Secretary of SACC Gauteng, Rev. Gift Moerane. The NUM requested the meeting in the wake of the controversial remarks concerning Christianity and public morality made by Mineworkers' President Senzeni Zokwana at the NUM Congress in late May.

President Zokwana apologised unreservedly for his "ill-judged" remarks. "A large number of our members are active and devout Christians and they greatly value Christian teachings and ethics," Zokwana said. "Many union leaders would not be where they are had it not been for the values that they acquired from the church and from their faith."

The SACC General Secretary acknowledged the pain that the NUM President's comments had caused to many people, but he expressed appreciation for his frank admission of error. "The long-term relationship between the NUM and the SACC is far more important than this particular incident," said Makue.

"We recognise that the Church has a critical role to play in the nation," NUM General Secretary Frans Baleni said. He stressed the union's desire to partner with churches around a range of issues, including the abolition of single-sex hostels, combating the spread of HIV/AIDS, promoting sustainable development, creating quality jobs and building commitment to ubuntu as a shared public value.

The SACC welcomed the opportunity to explore new partnerships with the NUM, and proposed the formation of a task force to identify a common agenda for action.

For more information, contact: Mr. Eddie Makue (082 853 3781)