ZUMA TO URGE ANC UNITY AT RALLY !

By Peter Biles - BBC News, Pretoria.

Jacob Zuma insists that the ANC remains strong. The new head of South Africa's ruling party, Jacob Zuma, is to make his first public address to the African National Congress since taking over as leader. Mr Zuma is expected to outline his political priorities and call for party unity, following his bitter leadership contest against President Thabo Mbeki.

The ANC is celebrating its 96th anniversary with a rally in Pretoria. The ANC's National Executive Committee has confirmed that Mr Zuma will be its presidential candidate in 2009. These are difficult days for the African National Congress. Mr Zuma has taken over the leadership of the ANC from Mr Mbeki after a divisive and bruising election contest.

There are now two centres of power in South Africa, with Mr Zuma in charge of the ruling party and Mr Mbeki serving out his term as president of the country, until 2009.

JACOB ZUMA
Played key role in fight against apartheid
Plagued by corruption allegations
Acquitted on rape charges
Seen as charismatic

There are rifts to be healed, but writing in his first newsletter as party president, Mr Zuma insists the ANC is not divided. He says there are no fundamental policy differences, in spite of vibrant debate, and says the organisation remains strong. He is certain to reiterate that message at the anniversary celebrations.

Another problem for the ANC is that Mr Zuma has recently been charged with corruption and is due to go on trial in August. The party's NEC is supporting him to the hilt and has already made it clear that he will be the ANC's candidate for president of South Africa in the 2009 elections.
BBC NEWS REPORT.