Issued by: North West Communication Service MAY 15 1996
STATEMENT BY NORTH WEST PREMIER MR POPO MOLEFE ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY BY MEC FOR TOURISM AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS MR AMIE VENTER THAT HE WILL LEAVE THE PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ON JUNE 30 THIS YEAR:
North West Premier Mr Popo Molefe on Wednesday said the resignation from the provincial cabinet of MEC for Tourism and Environmental Affairs and provincial leader of the National Party Mr Amie Venter proved the NP wished always to serve in a leading capacity.
"Now that they are not leading the political process, they feel they cannot continue playing second fiddle to the majority party, the African National Congress," said Mr Molefe.
On Wednesday afternoon, Mr Venter announced his withdrawal from the provincial cabinet in tandem with the decision by the leadership of the National Party.
Responding to the vacancy, Mr Molefe said the ANC had competent people who could assume positions both nationally and provincially. However, he had not yet decided how or when the vacancy would be filled.