The ANC in KwaZulu Natal is contacting its lawyers with an aim to take legal action against the United Democratic Movement and Mr Sifiso Bhengu, UDM Publicity Secretary and Provincial Deputy-Chairman, for falsely stating that the ANC is responsible for the killing of one UDM member and the injure of six other at Esikhawini last Saturday.
The UDM false allegation is inviolation of Section 89 of the Electoral Act and Section 9 (1) (b) of the Code of Conduct of the Electoral Act.
It has become clear that there are parties that will sink so low as to tell lies about the so-called intimidation from the ANC. This is aimed at achieving unwarranted publicity. The ANC calls upon the media to be very circumspect in reporting these allegations. It is important to verify these allegations before publication where it is possible.
In the case of the UDM allegation, the person they are referring to as having been killed by ANC members was killed by an alleged criminal in a bar after quarrelling over a woman. This is corroborated by the SAPS at Esikhawini. It had absolutely nothing to do with politics or elections campaign.
Issued by the ANC KwaZulu Natal Leadership.
For further info, contact Dumisani Makhaye at 082-551-9192 or (031) 307-5460.
31 May 1999