30 January 2008
The ANC condemns in the strongest possible terms the actions of DA Councillor Frank Martins and calls for his immediate dismissal as a Councillor. It is an undisputed fact that he played an active role in the illegal occupation of houses and that he did so by inciting coloured people on the false and racist premise that houses are being given to African people only.
Provincial Secretary Mcebisi Skwatsha said today; ‘Councillor Martin has incited ordinary people to break the law by invoking the worst sort of racist emotions surrounding the allocation of houses. The DA’s silence on a matter as serious as this one amounts to condemnation of his actions. Helen Zille and the DA should take steps to remove him as a councillor without delay. As mayor, Helen Zille is also duty bound to make her position on the actions of one of her councillors clear.
'Housing and land are super-charged emotive issues. Left to reckless elements, who wish to use the issue to build electoral support in a particular community, it can open a veritable Pandora's Box of problems with national implications for reconciliation and nation building. It cannot go unchallenged.
'The ANC will also refer the matter of Councillor Martin's utterances to the Human Rights Commission. The statements are reckless, untrue and constitute hate speech.'
For further information contact: Garth Strachan 083 454 6667 or Sivuyile Mbambato 073 897 8519