ANC dissidents who had celebrated divorcing the ANC were at the same time celebrating a new marriage to the DA, ANC president Jacob Zuma said on Thursday.

Addressing thousands of African National Congress election volunteers in Galeshewe, Zuma asked the crowd if they were prepared to go with people to the Democratic Alliance, which was loudly refused by the attendees.

"It's not me who said that, it's (Helen) Zille in that conference, in that thing, who talked (and) who said, I have been saying what you — the Congress of the People (COPE) — have been saying. They have finally understood my message."

Zuma is visiting Kimberley as part of an ANC election campaign in the Northern Cape for the 2009 elections.

On Wednesday, Zuma visited the Upington area.

The ANC president said those who were leaving the party should know that they would remain a tiny minority.

"Their plan is that people would resign in phases, ministers, councillors, mayors, premiers — even if they do that they would stay a tiny minority."

Zuma told the crowed that he was ready "to be led" by the ANC.

"I'm ready to be led. If the ANC said you come back, I would be glad (and) I would never be angry."

Zuma said those leaving the ANC on their popularity they had in the organisation should think twice.

"They think they can take that popularity to other organisations. Do not think when you drive on the wave of the ANC that it is your own wave."

Zuma said the masses had respected and supported many ANC leaders because of the movement.

He urged party members to leave those departing the ANC alone.

"Please let them go in peace. Maybe we would have fewer problems," Zuma said.

Sapa