Gauteng education MEC Angie Motshekga's statements at the weekend, that good matric results and academic achievements are not essential characteristics of a leader, is truly appalling, the Inkatha Freedom Party said today.

Speaking at an ANC Youth League function, she made the comments referring to Julius Malema's rather dismal matric results – which included a C, D and GG.

"Amid all the confusion and mixed messages coming from the political arena at the moment, it is really unfortunate that just before the start of the 2008 matric exams, Mrs Motshekga would tell the youth of this country that their results don't matter if they aspire to becoming leaders of our country. What message is she trying to send to our youth: it's ok if you don't do well in your exams because you can become an ANC leader? We believe she should clarify or retract these statements as a matter of urgency," said Alco Ngobese, the Deputy Chairperson of the IFP Gauteng.

The quality of ANC politicians have been on show very publicly lately. It started with Zwelinzima Vavi and Julius Malema's 'Kill for Zuma' statements, but the chairperson of the ANC Women's League, Angie Motshekga, was not to be outdone when she called ANC-dissents Mbhazima Shilowa and Terror Lekota "dogs".

"Recent statements and behaviour coming from the top-brass of the ANC is drastically lowering the public's expectations and perceptions of ANC leaders," said Ngobese.

In conclusion Mr Ngobese encouraged students to give their best in the upcoming matric exams: "The IFP believes that education in South Africa is in a state of crisis and that government has failed miserably in providing an education that prepares our students for the job market. Nevertheless, education remains a tool to a better life and we therefore call on all students to work hard and give their best in the upcoming exams," said Ngobese.

CONTACT:
Alco Ngobese, 076 834 4066