The facts of the DA donations from Mr Stephen Nel
Given the continued misleading and false reporting surrounding the question of whether or not the DA received funds from the Gupta family, there is a need to reiterate the facts of the matter.
The facts are as follows:
1. Stephen Nel, an executive of Sahara Computers from Potchefstroom, was introduced to the DA by Chris Hattingh, DA Leader in the North West Province.
2. In 2008, Mr Nel agreed to a meeting with Helen Zille, Leader of the Democratic Alliance.
3. Ahead of the meeting on 13 February 2009, Mr Nel advised that the meeting venue had been changed to 5 Saxonwold Close, Saxonwold. Both Helen Zille and Ian Davidson (who accompanied Ms Zille to the appointment) were briefed by the fundraising department that they were meeting with an executive of Sahara Computers. There is nothing wrong with the fact that the DA approached this company for a donation. The Gupta family became controversial in 2010. (Sahara computers had sponsored a range of activities. The Newlands cricket grounds, for example are called Sahara Park Newlands).