GAUTENG CABINET RESPONDING TO DUARTE ALLEGATIONS

Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government

GAUTENG CABINET RESPONDS TO ALLEGATIONS AGAINST MEC JESSIE DUARTE

The Gauteng Provincial Cabinet is disturbed by reports in some newspapers suggesting that there is pressure put on MEC Jessie Duarte to resign and that there are divisions in the Cabinet on the matter.

We would like to put it on record that there are no such divisions in the Cabinet and MEC Duarte has net been pressurised by anyone to resign.

The facts are as follows:

• Members of the Democratic Party, namely, Peter Leon and Jack Bloom met Premier Mathole Motshekga on Monday, 02 February 1998, and raised certain allegations against MEC Duarte. The Premier having listed to their side of the story assured them that the issues will receive his attention.
• On Wednesday morning, 04 February 1998, the Premier briefed ANC Office Bearers on the discussion with the Democratic Party and also briefed the Cabinet.

We would like to make it clear that the Cabinet noted the briefing from the Premier and did not discuss the merits and demerits of the matter.

The Premier and Members of the Executive Council collectively take a dim view of elements within certain sections of the media and opposition who are bent on fermenting and sowing divisions within our ranks.

To suggest that there is a group of MECs supporting Jessie Duarte and another calling for her sacking is ludicrous and must be dismissed with contempt. We will not allow forces with a sinister agenda to succeed with their destructive campaign.

NB: A press briefing will be convened by the Premier on Monday at 11h00 at the Premier's Office to announce the course of action on the matter.

For any further details please contact Makhosini Nkosi at (011) 355-6091 or 082-574-5495.