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I have noted media reports in relation to the statement I made on 12
September 2012 during the portfolio committee on mineral resources’
debate on the Marikana Lonmin miners’ strike. Much reference has been
made to the statement that “"we can't go and talk to a crowd with
suicidal tendencies", in response to the proposal that the portfolio
committee should intervene in the Marikana situation.

This statement was regrettably taken out of context and
opportunistically used by the detractors of the African National
Congress to heighten their ideological offensive against the movement in
relation to Marikana.

I have since carefully reflected on this statement and have realised
that it was unfortunate and stand contrary to the well documented
position of the ANC on the Marikana situation. I subscribe to the view
of the ANC in Parliament, as clearly articulated in the statement of the
ANC Chief Whip released on 13 September 2012, regarding our
parliamentary approach to the Marikana matter.

I therefore unconditionally withdraw my statement and apologise for the
embarrassment the statement may have caused to the movement.

Any further queries on this matter should be directed to the ANC Chief
Whip Spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo, on 082 370 6930.