"The IFP cannot support the government efforts to redraw the provincial borders against the will of the residents concerned. We stand by the people of Matatiele," said IFP National Organiser Albert Mncwango MP.

The IFP has long identified itself with the intrinsic right of the Matatiele people to self-determination. "The government's diktat to the people of Matatiele is unacceptable. How can a democratically-elected government be pushing an agenda against the express wishes of its people?" - said Mncwango.

In addition, the IFP believes that the planned incorporation into the impoverished Eastern Cape would have an adverse effect on the socio-economic development of communities in the region. "It would be a monumental setback for the people of Matatiele," said Mncwango.

Tomorrow's march will start at 10:00 at the Protection Services offices in downtown Matatiele. The march will culminate with a protest memorandum to be presented to the national Minister of Local Government Sydney Mufamadi. The IFP delegation will include the former MEC for Welfare and Population Development Inkosi Nyanga Ngubane and the IFP National Organiser.

Contact: Albert Mncwango, 083 448 4896
Date: 8 May 2007