Faiez Jacobs: ANC undermines fight against violence and abuse

26 January 2016

I am shocked to learn that the Secretary of the Western Cape ANC, Faiez Jacobs, is back at work after the ANC’s National Disciplinary Committee of Appeals upheld his appeal against his suspension.

This finding sets a terrible example for South Africa and undermines the fight against violence and abuse in our society.

There was clear evidence in the media that Mr. Wesley Seale had been attacked, allegedly by Jacobs, with photos of Seale showing blood gushing from his head, appearing in the media. Since then, criminal charges have been laid against Jacobs and he is set to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on 11 February.

It is clear the Western Cape ANC does not take this matter seriously. If they did, Mr Jacobs’ suspension would have been properly handled until this matter was concluded and the Court makes a ruling.

I therefore publicly call on the national executive of the ANC, especially the Secretary General Gwede Mantashe, to call the Western Cape ANC to order and act to properly deal with Faiez Jacobs.

Mr Mantashe must immediately intervene and get the Western Cape ANC to act against violence and abuse in our society, or be seen to approve of violent conduct.

Issued by Bonginkosi Madikizela, DA Western Cape Deputy Leader, 26 January 2016