JZ welcomes policy criticism

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma has welcomed criticism of ANC policy discussion documents, arguing that this helped shape their evolution.

Speaking at yesterday's presidential gala dinner hosted by the ruling party in Midrand, Zuma, addressing business people and delegates from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (Brics), said: "I get very happy when people criticise our policies because they actually participate in their evolution."

He also used the occasion to cast the spotlight firmly on the ANC's history and democratic traditions and on the much anticipated national policy conference that starts today at Gallagher Estate in Midrand.

"You should agree that the ANC is different as an organisation. I believe that when all is said and done, you will find that we do things transparently."

In seeking to keep attention off the policy conference, Zuma said: "Tonight is a happy moment, not a serious moment."

However, the president's words would have done little to fend off criticism of what could be described as Zuma's centre piece of the discussion document - the "second transition". Also in attendance was his deputy Kgalema Motlanthe and Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan.