Newly elected Mandeni Councillor, Mimi Hlatshwayo, was abducted from her home at about 07:30hrs yesterday morning by three unknown men. She was blindfolded and taken to a deserted hut where she was held until 03:00hrs the next morning. Her abductors then dropped her off on a dirt road outside of Maphumulo. She was able to call the police through the kind assistance of a stranger. The Maphumulo police collected her and arranged her transportation back to Mandeni.

Councillor Hlatshwayo has pressed charges and an investigation is now underway. Councillor Hlatshwayo said that her abductors told her that the reason for her abduction was to ensure that she could not take part in the election for Mandeni Mayor yesterday.

Reacting to the incident, IFP National Spokesperson, Rev. K. M. Zondi, MP, expressed grave concern at the abduction of Councillor Hlatshwayo. He said that the Party was horrified by the actions of certain individuals, who would stop at nothing in order to promote their own personal agenda's.

Rev. Zondi said:

"The Party is disgusted at this cowardly act and hopes that the perpetrators are apprehended as soon as possible. It is important to establish their motives. We call on the police to also investigate the possibility of other rival political parties in the abduction."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Councillor Hlatshwayo. I hope that her faith in humankind and in the democratic process will not be destroyed."

"It is important for the democratic process that the election for the mayor of Mandeni takes place as soon as possible. The IFP calls on all Councillors in Mandeni not to be intimidated by renegade elements who are selfishly pursuing their own ambition."

Further comment: