IFP Spokesperson on Telecommunications, Broadcasting and Postal Services, Suzanne Vos MP, has called for an independent inquiry into the issuing of the third cellular licence, following allegations made by the Chairperson of SATRA, Mr Nape Maepa about irregularities in the process.

Commenting on Mr Maepa's allegations, Suzanne Vos said:

"There now appears to be no doubt that further high-level and independent investigation is required into the decision-making surrounding the awarding of South Africa's third cellular network licence. The IFP would support the establishment of a judicial commission of enquiry or any equivalent adequately funded investigation totally isolated from government control or interference."

"The issue goes to the heart of South Africa's credibility as a country in which international investors can have confidence in the honesty and integrity of its independent regulators. Given that the multi-billion dollar telecommunications industry is seen as the world's largest growth sector and is critical to our development as a nation, this matter must be taken very seriously indeed."

"Details revealed by the Chairperson of SATRA this past weekend confirm suspicions long-held by the IFP that the process of awarding this licence appears to have been seriously compromised in various ways."

"The IFP made it clear, following the inconclusive report from the Auditor-General, that it believed matters had been far from satisfactorily resolved."

"The IFP has repeatedly raised its concerns with regard to information placed at the disposal of members of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications during its attempt to investigate the issue. It did not appear that the Auditor-General, by his own admission, had the time or the resources to adequately address the complexities of all this information. It is clear the matter cannot be left as it is."

For further information contact :

Suzanne Vos MP, 083 303 0451 (021) 403 2995