PRESS STATEMENT BY THE
INKATHA FREEDOM PARTY

IFP VOICES ITS GRAVE CONCERNS OVER THE PROMOTION OF EQUALITY AND PREVENTION OF UNFAIR DISCRIMINATION BILL

CAPE TOWN : JANUARY 25, 2000

Despite its support for the overall principles of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination, the IFP strongly disapproves of the clause in the Bill, which cites patriarchy as one of the prohibited grounds. The party rejects lumping patriarchy together with apartheid, as a mother of all forms of discrimination. Viewing patriarchy as a prohibited ground, might have serious deleterious consequences for social organisation and weaken social control. This might affect order and discipline in families and the whole society.

Prof. G. Ndabandaba, IFP spokesperson on Justice said: ‘We are all culture bound more or less. Legislation on aspects of culture like patriarchy is therefore in the IFP's view an overreach of legislation. We do not deny that the proper business of this legislation is to prohibit unfair discrimination and to promote equality. But this noble exercise must not be done at the expense of culture which, although made by people, in turn makes people.’

The IFP is also gravely concerned that equality may not be understood similarly by both the traditionalist and westernised people. This may result in some conflict and in interfering with current traditional and religious practices. Harassment is also defined vaguely and broadly. It could effectively apply to any perceived lack of good manners or humour or proper human consideration.

The IFP is happy however, that it successfully lobbied for the bill to include advanced age as one of the conditions of being disadvantaged vulnerable. This augurs well for the future protection of senior citizens.

For Further Information: Prof. G. Ndabandaba 083 478 5953

IFP Media Office 021-403 3965