By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Congress of the People (COPE) has postponed the launch of its election manifesto that was scheduled to take place on Saturday 23 March at the Suurman Hall in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria.
In a statement released late on Friday, the party said it had received calls from other organisations that expressed interest in collaborating with Cope and being part of the manifesto launch.
“As a result, the number of supporters to be bused to the venue has increased and this has created capacity challenges as the venue may not be able to accommodate a host of supporters expected to attend, “the statement read.
“The party’s national executive committee has taken a decision to postpone the launch to avoid potential disasters such as stampedes.”
Cope’s apologised and expressed gratitude to its supporters.
At the same time, the party, which has been plagued by divisions and public spats between factions, has joined forces with traditional leaders organisation Freedom In South Africa (FISA).
According to the party leader, leader Mosiuoa Lekota, they will now advocate for a governance model where kingdoms and royal houses hold authority above traditional politics.
Lekota said, they have managed to garner the support of more than 30 ethnic groups.
“We want to present to the country a united government [which is] committed to the defense of the Constitution and bringing the people of our country together,” he said.
Lekota dismissed those who left Cope as individuals who were not having their interests properly served.
He highlighted the need for a government that prioritises the people’s interests ahead of personal gain, condemning corruption and the misuse of public funds.