22 October 2007

A number of IFP councillors from Newcastle are prepared to talk to the media about offers of cheap Ithala loans from ANC officials in return for swapping their political allegiance in the latest floor-crossing. 

“Councillors Bheki Khumalo, Ephraim Zwane, Dudu Mbatha, Virginia Mncube, Christina Nhlapho and Thulisile Thungo were approached by individuals from the ruling party, some placed very high, with lucrative offers as an incentive to cross the floor on the Newcastle Council prior to the September 2007 floor-crossing window,” said IFP National Chairperson and Mayor of the Zululand District Municipality Zanele KaMagwaza-Msibi. 

The IFP has long denounced the reality of horse-trading prior to floor-crossing windows but the party sees this particular case as especially alarming. “Offers, however unofficial, of Ithala loans smack of abuse of taxpayers’ money for political gain since Ithala is a state-controlled banking entity,” said KaMagwaza-Msibi. 

The IFP applauds the courage and integrity of the six councillors who are prepared to speak publicly about the undercurrents of the floor-crossing process. “These individuals are putting themselves at risk of retribution from the ruling party. Their courage is exemplary,” said KaMagwaza-Msibi.
 

Contact: Zanele KaMagwaza-Msibi, 082 804 7993