Government issues protocol on respecting the national anthem

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Government calls on South Africans to stand to attention - with their hands placed at their sides - while singing the National Anthem.

This guideline applies indefinitely. Government issues this appeal now to ensure that 2010 Football World Cup stadium audiences show the necessary respect for the South African anthem and those of participating countries.

This guideline was confirmed during the June 4 meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the 2010 FIFA World Cup, following earlier deliberations on this issue.

Government urges audiences not to move around, hold conversations or blow vuvuzelas during performances of the anthem.

Respect for the anthem is part of the total experience of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Themba Maseko
South African Government Spokesperson
2010 FIFA World Cup

Mobile No: 083 645 0810