Forgiveness is the cure to bitterness, revenge and escalating conflict, former South African president FW de Klerk said on Sunday.
He was speaking at the closing of the Arts and Reconciliation Festival and Conference held at the University of Pretoria.
The event was opened by Archbishop Desmond Tutu on Monday.
”Forgiveness is the road to reconciliation,” De Klerk said.
He said when people sincerely and truly forgive the wrong done to them, they are freed of the burden of bitterness.
”The next decade would be dominated by the need for socio-economic transformation,” De Klerk said.
He said although each South African has a vote, not many have a job. The manner in which South Africa deals with socio-economic transformation will determine its future.
”Let us recommit ourselves to true reconciliation in the spirit of forgiveness,” he said. — Sapa