Cape Town : March 8, 1999
The Inkatha Freedom Party has praised the GCIS for doing a remarkable job in the year since they took over from the moribund South African Communication Service. However, they have warned that the Chief Executive Officer of GCIS, Mr Netshitenzhe, and his staff walk a daily tightrope between the proper provision of Government information to the citizen and the improper dissemination of propaganda for the ruling party.
Whilst the IFP has made clear that it does not share the view of other opposition parties in the recent controversy over the GCIS document on government achievements, it is concerned about plans for a radio information campaign and intends to remain vigilant in the run up to the General Election.
Speaking in the National Assembly debate on the GCIS Appropriation Vote, Mr V B Ndlovu MP said:
"The IFP will not tolerate government funding being used for ANC propaganda but we have yet to be convinced that it is. Mr Netshitenzhe is extremely wise to have informed the Parliamentary Communications Committee that his Department intends to wind down over the election period, stay out of sight and concentrate on capacity building.
The growth, development and integrity of his department is too important to sacrifice on the altar of party political expediency.’