Protests continue over Dalai Lama snub

06/10/11 00:33 CET

world news

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South Africa’s decision to deny a visa to the Dalai Lama is continuing to spark protests. It follows a vehement attack by Desmond Tutu on the ruling ANC party – it was the archbishop who had invited the Tibetan spiritual leader to join him for his 80th birthday celebrations.

Appearing at a televised news conference, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Desmond Tutu was forthright in his opinion: “ This government, or government is worse that the apartheid government….because our government representing me, representing me? It says it will not support Tibetans who are being oppressed viciously by the Chinese. Hey, Mr Zuma, you and your government don’t represent me, you represent your own interests.”

The ANC has rejected the criticism saying the Dalai Lama has visited South Africa several times before. However, last week a number of trade deals were signed with China which considers the Dalai Lama to be a dangerous separatist.

More about: Dalai Lama, Diplomatic mission, Politics, South Africa

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