The Ministry of Sport and Recreation South Africa wishes to express its disappointment at the singing of the South African National Anthem. "Our team was humiliated in Toulouse, France last week, not in the field of play, but at the singing of the purported national anthem.
Our government and our people were insulted by the people who dragged our national anthem in the mud. This national anthem was won with sacrifice that included the sacrifice of life. South Africa and the world must respect it and no deviation is allowed on the words. This applies to all self-respecting nations," said Minister Stofile.
South African Rugby Union (SARU) has been requested to provide an explanation on what transpired in France, and to apologise to South Africa for this embarrassing occurrence.
Issued by: Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA)
17 November 2009
Source: Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) (http://www.srsa.gov.za)
