The white population, the middle-class and entrepreneurs were assured on Thursday by former Gauteng Premier Mbhazima Shilowa that they had a role to play in the new party to be formed by ANC dissidents.

Addressing a meeting of young professionals in Johannesburg, Shilowa said the new party would be inclusive of all South Africans.

"What is wrong with having a party in South Africa attracting whites? The party should not be non-racial on paper but in character, values and participation," he said.

Shilowa said the middle-class was vital as they were in a position to create wealth.

"How can we create wealth if we are all poor? We need to use the presence of all people — rich, poor, educated, and entrepreneurs," he said.

Shilowa said the new party would embrace academic excellence. It wanted new leaders with fresh ideas.

"It is you we want to emerge as leaders of this party. You cannot have a party that does not modernise. We need professionals," he said.

Commenting on the letter former president Thabo Mbeki wrote to the ANC, Shilowa reiterated his call for the ANC to release it to the public.

"We contest the accuracy of what the ANC said about the contents of the letter. We challenge them to release it... mark my word... I am saying this having seen the letter," Shilowa said.

Sapa