Issued by ANC D.I.P. Western Cape
The ANC condemns the recent events in Khayelitsha and Nyanga on Sunday 30 May 1999 where two ANC supporters were shot at and one stabbed by UDM members. It was reported that the shooting emanated from a moving taxi that was transporting UDM members. Independent monitors have confirmed this.
In a related incident a group of UDM supporters marched passed an ANC Office in Nyanga where they brutally attacked Ms Vuyelwa Gcelu, who is eight months pregnant and Mr. Majey Hollow who is a Nyanga Branch Election Team co-ordinator. A case of assault has been laid with the police against the following UDM members: Ms Novelela, Mr. Mxwebisa, Mr. Nobaker and Mr. M April.
The above incident occurred within a context of general intolerance towards the ANC. Over the weekend the ex Mayor, Ms Theresa Solomon and her daughter were physically attacked by NP supporters, including the husband of NP councillor, Mrs Williams, whilst taking part in a motorcade through Eastridge Mitchell's Plain.
Mr. Mcebisi Skwatsha, ANC Provincial Secretary, said:
"I am appalled at these blatant acts of electoral thuggery and intimidation.
"The ANC takes these events very seriously considering that the ANC has been calling on its supporters TO NOT PROVOKE and NOT TO BE PROVOKED.
"The ANC notes the general attacks on its members by the NP in Mitchell's Plain and the UDM in Stellenbosch and Nyanga. Clearly the NP is a spent force and the UDM a non- starter in the South African political arena and are now desperately resorting to blatant intimidation.
"The ANC challenges the UDM and NP to take disciplinary action against their supporters and prominent members in an transparent fashion.
"We will be providing the NP and UDM with the names of the members who are responsible. We call on Gerald Morkel and Archie Lewis to respond clearly on what they will be doing to discipline their party identified followers."
Contact Cameron Dugmore on 082-8947553 or pager 4184616 code z7131 for further information.
31 May 1999