×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

NUM calls on Cosatu to lead 'naked march'

NATIONAL Union of Mineworkers president Senzeni Zokwana yesterday called on Cosatu president Sdumo Dlamini to lead a "naked march" to the Goodman Gallery in protest against the controversial portrait of President Jacob Zuma.

Addressing hundreds of NUM delegates at the opening of the union's elective congress on the East Rand, he said the "naked march" would give Goodman Gallery owner Liza Essers, artist Brett Murray and other artists good reason to paint blacks with their genitals exposed.

Murray's artwork shows the president with his genitals exposed.

Zokwana said only men should attend the march because they would all be naked. He did not say when the march would be held.

Echoing the sentiments of those who have been condemning the display, Zokwana said the artwork was not inspired by artistic expression but by racism.

"That painting was just an expression of how certain white people still perceive blacks," said Zokwana to loud cheers.

Murray's painting - titled The Spear - has caused an uproar since it was publicised in the media last week.

Zuma and the ANC have since filed papers in the Johannesburg High Court in a bid to secure an urgent interdict that would see the painting removed.

The application will be heard by a full bench today.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.