[DEBATE] : Economic policies to remain the same: Motlanthe

[grinker at mweb.co.za]

Economic policies to remain the same: Motlanthe 

Motlanthe says the economic policies of the country will not change 
September 25, 2008, 15:30 
President Kgalema Motlanthe says South Africa's new government will not 
change the economic policies that have ensured sustained growth. He also 
said that the new Cabinet will intensify efforts to create more jobs. 
Motlanthe was addressing Parliament today after he was elected by an 
overwhelming majority to lead South Africa until after next year's general 
election. 

Motlanthe received 269 votes from MPs in the National Assembly against 
Democratic Alliance candidate Joe Seremane's 50. There were 41 spoilt 
ballots. Motlanthe will act as interim head of state until after next year's 
general election. He succeeds Thabo Mbeki, who was asked to step down last 
week by the ANC's National Executive Committee. 

The ANC says Motlanthe's election to the country's highest seat sends a 
signal to the country and the international community of the ANC's 
commitment to maintain stability and continuity in government. Party 
spokesperson Jesse Duarte says Motlanthe belongs to a group of leaders who 
have always put the needs of the country and its people first. 

The South African Communist Party (SACP) congratulated Motlanthe, describing 
his election as a new dawn in the country. Party spokesperson Malisela 
Maleka says it will create a platform to improve relations between 
government and the ANC's alliance partners. Maleka has described Motlanthe 
as someone who understands the needs and aspirations of ordinary people.