ANC tries to stop flighting of DA’s ‘Jobs Not Jets’ billboard

29 June 2016

The DA has learned that late this afternoon a group of self-proclaimed ANC supporters attempted to stop the flighting of our ‘Jobs Not Jets’ billboard in central Johannesburg, ahead of its unveiling tomorrow morning.

The private company that was ensuring the billboard was ready for its unveiling was approached by a group, who identified themselves as being from the ANC. This group demanded to know what was behind the blue sheet which currently covers the billboard. 

They proceeded to hurl rocks at the employees of the private company, and only left once security was called for assistance. 

The DA condemns this act of violence by the ANC. It is clear that they are trying to conceal the truth about Jacob Zuma’s skewed priorities. 

This conduct is expressly prohibited by section 92 of the Electoral Act which demands that “no person may deface of unlawfully remove any billboard, placard or poster published by registered party or candidate.”

We will not be intimidated by their conduct. South Africans deserve to know about Jacob Zuma’s latest plans to enrich himself at the expense of 8.9 million jobless South Africans. 

We will continue with our event tomorrow, and - as revealed today – hand over a memorandum to Luthuli House. We have every right to do so, and we will exercise those rights accordingly. 

We urge the South African Police Service to take action against these ANC thugs, and ensure that we are allowed to campaign freely tomorrow, when we unveil our ‘Jobs Not Jets’  billboard. 

Issued by Phumzile Van Damme, DA National Spokesperson,  29 June 2016