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In a statement quoted in the Sunday Independent (25 October 2015), the Democratic Alliance’s John Moodey makes the allegation that the recent reshuffling of the Gauteng cabinet is "aimed at removing the threat of corruption allegations and investigations against former Sports MEC Lebogang Maile and his cronies, and to spare the ANC further embarrassment…." The reported statements by the leader of the DA in Gauteng are not only unfortunate but also raise a number of calculated innuendo and aspersions. Without a doubt, the allegations are underscored by libelous statements against the MEC for Economic, Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development, Lebogang Maile.

We condemn these allegations as nothing but malicious and mudslinging antics aimed at undermining the public standing of the ANC and its leaders through the media.

It is extremely concerning that the DA habitually makes vicious and defamatory claims against ANC leaders in the province without any shred of evidence or consequences.

There is neither a case nor an investigation that implicates MEC Maile on any corrupt and illegal activities in his capacity as the former MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation in Gauteng.

We consider these allegations baseless and damaging to MEC Maile’s reputation as a public representative.

Accordingly, we are pursuing legal steps against John Moodey and the DA and demand a retraction and a public apology by no later than noon on Wednesday, 28 October 2015.

We have also approached the Integrity Commissioner for the Gauteng Legislature to investigate the veracity of these claims.

For enquiries please contact MEC Lebogang Maile’s Spokesperson Ms. Phindile Kunene on 082 494 2409, email address Phindile.kunene@gauteng.gov.za


Issued by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development