The African National Congress on Thursday extended an olive branch to its rival, the Inkatha Freedom Party.

In a statement expressing concern over "unfortunate" comments made by ANC Youth League president, Julius Malema, about IFP president Mangosutho Buthelezi, the ANC "affirm[ed] its respect" for the long-time leader of its fiercest rival in KwaZulu-Natal.

"The ANC does not endorse statements from its members that seek to denigrate and vilify leaders of other political parties, no matter how strongly we may disagree with those leaders," spokeswoman Jessie Duarte said.

"The ANC wishes to affirm its respect for Prince Buthelezi as a national leader who plays an important role in the country's public life."

This comes after weeks of mud-slinging between the ANCYL and the IFP and its Youth Brigade.

It began after politically-motivated attacks on ANC members took place as they made their way to a rally in Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal, traditionally an IFP stronghold.

Malema reportedly said Buthelezi should retire and he urged ANC supporters to return to Nongoma to campaign in the IFP leader's backyard and recruit Buthelezi's wife and children.

The ANC said it was "in discussion" with Malema regarding his comments.

Earlier, the ruling party reigned in the firebrand youth leader condemning comments he made about education minister Naledi Pandor.

A written apology from Malema followed.

Duarte added it was "essential" to avoid increasing political temperatures, particularly in the run-up to the national elections.
This applied not only to KwaZulu-Natal but to the country as a whole.

"Whatever political differences may exist, the ANC is determined to work with Prince Buthelezi and the IFP to consolidate peace and stability in KwaZulu-Natal, and to find common ground on the critical issues that affect our people," she said.

IFP spokesman Thulasizwe Buthelezi on Thursday welcomed the ANC's gesture saying his party was committed to reconciliation with the ANC.

"The IFP and Prince Buthelezi have had a lifelong commitment to reconciliation with the ANC. We welcome their comments especially in light of further cementing ties in the run-up to the election," he said.

He said the party also acknowledged the need for tolerance during election campaigning by allowing any party to campaign in any part of South Africa.

"The mudslinging must now stop, we must put this behind us to build peace and lasting reconciliation not necessarily for the election but in the long run."