Statement by MKMVA on the outcome of its three-day National Conference held on 28-30 September 2007

2 October 2007

The Umkhonto we Sizwe Military Association held its 3rd National Conference in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng on 28Ð30 September 2007.

The conference was declared a resounding success by the more than 800 delegates who attended.

The conference discussed a number of policy-related issues that ranged from addressing challenges facing ex-combatants to active participation by MKMVA in the political mainstream.

Delegates also elected the associationÕs new leadership that would be tasked with implementing the resolutions adopted by conference.

The following declaration was adopted by the conference:

The 3rd National Conference of MKMVA met in Boksburg. In attendance were more than 800 delegates from throughout the country,

Conference delegates noted the critical role played by MK in achievement of national democratic revolution, and that it would continue to play its role as agent for progressive change. This would be pursuit of the following objectives:

• Promote the interest of its members through influencing administrative procedures to positively impact on its members;
• Ensure meaningful integration of MKMVA into the ANC, the Revolutionary alliance and the society at large:
• Ensure effective participation of its members in the political life and strengthening the ANC and the revolutionary alliance;
• Encourage meaningful participation of its members within the auspices of the Military Veterans AffairsÕ Act and other legislation.
• Promote and maintain high standards of discipline, professionalism and integrity;
• Seek opportunities that would ensure that the socio-economic well-being of its members are taken care of:
• Foster relations and partnership with other progressive Military Veterans organisation Nationally and Internationally.
• Delegates had extensive discussions on the state of the organisation of the MKMVA, the need of its strengthening, improving the socio-economic well being of its members and the need for extensive organisational renewal.
• The conference further held extensive discussions on the need to strengthen the African National Congress (ANC) and all its structures to ensure a better life for all is realised. It further reaffirmed the vanguard role of reconstruction and development.

Conference therefore committed itself and resolved to undertake the following:

1. Enhance social and economic transformation
   
2. Strengthen the MKMVA, the ANC and the revolutionary alliance;
   
3. Promote and preserve the history, heritage and legacy of MK:
   
4. To strengthen peace, security and stability.

The conference further declared the need for all-round vigilance against reactionary forces and elements bent on undermining and destroying the ANC and the revolutionary alliance.

In conclusion, MKMVA recommits itself to be an indispensable instrument for change, the promotion of unity within the revolutionary forces, and the pursuit of a better life for all!!

Issued by MKMVA
For more information contact: Ms Ayanda Dlodlo on 076 226 0873

Addendum:

National Office Bearers
CHAIRPERSON Kebby Maphatsoe
DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON Mbulelo Mabala
SECRETARY Ayanda Dlodlo
DEPUTY SECRETARY Ramatuku Maphutha
TREASURER Sparks Motseki