ANC Statement on the Mail & Guardian Report on Modise.

The ANC has noted a report in the Mail & Guardian today (27 March 2009) containing claims linking the assassination of Chris Hani to the late ex Defence Minister, Joe Modise. The claims, according to the report, are contained in RW Johnson's new book, "South Africa's Brave New World: The Beloved Country Since the End of Apartheid" (see here).

The allegations are designed to create doubt on the illustrious role played by Modise in the struggle to defeat apartheid and poison the good memory that the majority of South Africans have of him. Such allegations are regrettable as they are insensitive to the pain suffered by both the Hani and Modise families regarding their losses.

The ANC remains unshaken in its belief that Modise was a gallant and a tireless fighter for our freedom who played a pivotal role in the negotiated settlement and integration of the armed forces during his role as the Minister of Defence.

If anyone has any credible additional information about Chris Hani's assassination they have a responsibility to take that information to the relevant authorities. Those who wilfully spread rumours and make fanciful allegations against people should have the courage to take the evidence they have to the police.

Statement issued by the African National Congress, March 27 2009

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