THE ANC STATEMENT ON THE  DEVELOPMENTS IN THE ZAMDELA TOWNSHIP

The African National Congress welcomes the decision of the Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Comrade Richard Baloyi, of suspending the proposed amalgamation date of Metsimaholo and Ngwathe municipalities as proposed by the Dermacations Board. We also welcome the decision of the Minister to engage all stakeholders. We believe that this decision will assist in enabling all stakeholders to engage meaningfully in considering the proposal from the Dermacations  Board.

It is regrettable that a well intentioned initiative calculated to improve performance of local government has collapsed on the grounds of allegations of poor or non consultation with the affected  communities. The ANC NEC members will work with the structures of the ANC on the ground to ensure that calm is restored. In this regard, the ANC structures will work closely with relevant government structures and community leaders to resolve the dispute.

We extend our condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones following a protest that deteriorated into sustained and destructive violence, looting and injury of people. We call on the police to act decisively against criminal elements who exploited genuine grievances of the people of Metsimaholo.  We call on the people of all townships involved in the protest to give consultation a chance and reject violence.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC National Spokesperson, January 23 2013

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