INKATHA FREEDOM PARTY
IFP DISGUSTED BY REPORTS
OF IN-FIGHTING WITHIN SPORTS BODIES
CAPE TOWN : FEBRUARY 3, 2000
The IFP is deeply disgusted by reports of in-fighting between the National Olympics Committee of South Africa (NOCSA) and Athletics South Africa (ASA), which now threaten the participation of the national athletics team’s at the Sydney’s Olympics later this year.
Commenting on this situation, the IFP Spokesperson on Sports, Mr E.T.Ferreira said : "It is highly irresponsible of the leaders of these two bodies to stoop so low to the point of putting the future of our athletes and the pride of the whole nation at stake, just on what appears to be arrogance."
"The IFP is profoundly disturbed by what looks like a culture among sports bodies in this country to put their petty jealousies and squabbles above the good of the country. This is evident even in soccer. These officials behave as if They own the whole nation or they have hereditary and absolute rights to the positions they hold."
"While we, the IFP, do not encourage government interference in sports, we understand that no responsible government can fold its arms while unpatriotic individuals use the national asset to satisfy their private agendas, to the detriment of the country. This must come to a stop. It is completely treacherous."
For further information: Mr E.T. Ferreira, MP 082 490 5119
Issued by: IFP Media Office 021-403 3965/45