The IFP wishes to set the record straight on a report leaked from the Speaker's Office to the provincial media alleging that its MPP, Prince Gideon Zulu, has been absent from the legislature business without leave.

The report alleges that only one apology was recorded for the Prince's absence last year and only two medical certificates were received, covering only seven days.

"These allegations are simply not true. The IFP Whips' Office records 12 medical certificates received from Prince Gideon Zulu dating from 30 April 2004 until 1 May 2005," said IFP KZN Chief Whip, Henry Combrinck MPP.

Mr Combrinck further explained:

"These certificates cover all the Prince's absences from the parliamentary business and all were duly submitted to the Speaker's Office.

"Many of the certificates run concurrently as the Prince underwent an elaborate spine operation in January and, prior and subsequent to the operation, consulted a wide range of medical specialists.

"The leaked parliamentary report does little justice to an ailing gentleman of Prince Gideon Zulu's calibre.

"The IFP wonders whether the Prince's lifelong contribution to the political process in KwaZulu-Natal should not have earned him more respect from the parliamentary authorities."