Deputy Speaker, hon President, hon Deputy President and hon members, South Africans have never displayed so much joy, harmony and unity of purpose as we saw during the World Cup. The sight of different racial groups and colours, all standing side by side, shouting, singing and blowing their vuvuzelas was beautiful to behold.
Indeed, the success of this tournament was, by far, beyond all expectations. Even the optimists were taken by surprise by the overwhelming success that we achieved. Foreigners who spoke little English said, "This is wonderful." Foreign journalists, who had been negative in their reporting about our preparedness for the World Cup, could not find a negative thing to report on. Yes, Africa did it, and South Africa did it in style. Who can doubt the fact that the world's perception of Africa has improved?
However, the ACDP is concerned that the positive image of this country which was created by the successful World Cup is being undermined by the latest events, such as the strike, the controversial Media Appeals Tribunal and the Protection of State Information Bill.
The Vienna-based International Press Institute said that it had sent an open letter to President Zuma expressing its concerns over what the ANC is planning to do with the Media Appeals Tribunal and the Protection of State Information Bill. [Interjections.] In the letter, the watchdog expressed concern that the planned regulations would endanger the independence and vitality of the South African media.
A Zimbabwean media analyst who is in our country is reported to have said that parallels between the Bill and the Zimbabwean government's actions were clear. He said:
Just as Zanu (PF) did, this is a very clear attempt to control the media ... This Bill has been initiated by those in power who cannot take criticism from the media.
As the rain outside has dampened the warm and sunny weather we've all enjoyed over the last few days, so has the latest news about what SA Rugby Union President Oregon Hoskins called "major problems" concerning the use of the new stadiums for future matches been a damper. It sounds like they will turn into white elephants and we really appeal to government to ensure that this will not be the case.
In conclusion, the ACDP wants to join the President in thanking the long list of people who contributed much in order to make South Africa the talk of the nations because we have improved the image of Africa by hosting a very successful World Cup. I thank you. [Applause.]