The IFP says it is the obduracy by government that mainly leads to
unnecessary violent protests and loss of lives which otherwise could have
been avoided. This was said by the IFP after a meeting with some leaders of
the Umlazi Glebe Hostel residents this yesterday afternoon where IFP leaders
were told of problems facing the residents which have been brought to the
attention of the local ANC Councillor Mzobe, Mayor James Nxumalo and Cogta
MEC, Nomusa Dube; all in vain.

Bongani Mthembu, Chairperson of the Residents' Committee, and the Committee
Secretary, Mr Majola, gave IFP leaders copies of Memoranda which they had
submitted to Mayor Nxumalo and MEC Dube last year, which enumerated their
problems and demands; to which there has never been any response. In
particular the community accuses Cllr Mzobe of being a dictator and being
selective when it comes to providing job opportunities. In addition they
complain of squalid living conditions within the hostel.

The leader of the IFP delegation, IFP MPL, Joshua Mazibuko said: "From what
we have heard it is obvious that neither the Office of the Mayor nor that of
the MEC is prepared to give an ear, let alone attend to the grievances of
the residents of Umlazi Glebe Hostel. The marches took place last year and
Memoranda were delivered to both the MEC and Mayor, yet there has never been
any positive response is unacceptable indeed."

"It is such obduracy on the part of government leaders which fuels community
frustrations which lead to unnecessary violent protests and loss of lives.
It is high time leaders kept in mind that they are public servants and not
bosses," Mazibuko added.

"We will take up these grievances with the relevant organs of government for
we want to see a response," he concluded.