ANC Statements

The ANC has heartily congratulated Sinn Fein on its historic victory at the recent elections in Northern Ireland. Sinn Féin gained 27 seats, thus holding the majority in Parliament.

Sinn Féin will be the largest party in the Northern Ireland Assembly for the first time, pushing the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) into second place.

One of Sinn Féin’s leaders, Michelle O’Neill said her party was committed “… to work through partnership, not division,” – a commendable display of visionary leadership. “Today ushers in a new era which I believe presents us all with an opportunity to reimagine relationships in this society on the basis of fairness, on the basis of equality and on the basis of social justice.”

Earlier, Ms O’Neill said it had been an election of “real change” and a “defining moment for our politics

and for our people.” She added that as a liberation movement, we are not oblivious of the painful

history that Northern Ireland has gone through for generations.

Notwithstanding this historic victory, Sinn Fein has displayed humility by emphasising its willingness to

“work with those who serve in all other political perspectives.”

Whilst alive to the challenges ahead, the ANC is optimistic that Sinn Fein will provide the necessary leadership for the people of Northern Ireland. As Sinn Fein’s President Mary-Lou McDonald said: “The Future is bright for all of us.”

END

ISSUED BY THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS SUB-COMMITTEE ON

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS LINDIWE ZULU

Enquiries

Pule Mabe

National Spokesperson

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