IFP believes ANC's tactics in Cape Town a desperate attempt to secure power

MEDIA STATEMENT RELEASED BY:
MR PETER SMITH MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON FOR PROVINCIAL & LOCAL GOVERNMENT


September 20, 2006

Mr Peter Smith, the IFP spokesperson for Provincial and Local Government, today said:
"The IFP believes the ANC's intention to replace Cape Town's current executive mayoral system with a collective executive reveals its desperation to secure power at all costs."

"If the ANC is serious about the merits of the collective executive system, then these merits should apply first to all municipalities under its control rather that to just one run by the opposition. The fact that Cape Town alone is to benefit from the ANC's intervention gives a lie to Local Government Richard Dyantyi's claims that the motivation is centred on improved governance and legitimacy."

Mr Smith concluded by saying: "The IFP also believes the ANC MEC may be on constitutionally unsound ground if he goes ahead with his threat. In exercising its powers and functions, government is required to behave in a rational manner. Capricious behaviour, such as that anticipated in Dyantyi's actions may well be considered illegitimate."

"The IFP supports Cape Town challenging the MEC in court."


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Peter Smith MP: 084 703 6009
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848