By Mkhuleko Hlengwa MP
IFP National Spokesperson
Note to Editors: This statement follows the sitting of the IFP’s National Executive committee. The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the IFP sits every Monday to discuss issues facing the country and the party.
National Day of Action against fuel price hikes:
The IFP NEC today determined that the party will host a day of national action in marching for the suspension of fuel price levies and the escalating costs of living in August 2018.
This comes as the ANC government appears to be twiddling its thumbs in taking any strong action against suspending the fuel levies and lowering the costs of petrol for motorists.
In her reply to the IFP, Speaker of Parliament Ms Baleka Mbete outright refused to deem this matter as one of national importance and therefore all IFP structures will participate in protest action to highlight the plight of millions of South Africans.
The position of the IFP NEC is clear, we reiterate our call for the suspension of the fuel levies until such a time that the economic situation in our country improves and that our currency strengthens.
The NEC is of the view that an overhaul in pricing adjustments is required to offer our people a better deal. In this regard, the IFP will launch a National Petition to mobilise South Africans and our structures in calling on government to take action. Enough is simply enough – Our people are in desperate need of leadership and strong intervention from the national government.
Furthermore, the ANC has done nothing but pay lip service to the adverse effects the rising costs of fuel and VAT and electricity will have on the poorest of the poor in our country. Not only do these increases affect the poor and unemployed, but jobseekers and the working people of our country alike. The ANC voted for these increases and they must now use their numbers in Parliament to undo this.
The NEC today also noted that Eskom’s ridiculous ask for an increase of 30% in electricity costs to consumers will further escalate matters and push the majority of our people into debt and worsen their quality of life.
Eskom should get its financial house in order and further reduce Executive pay and all other niceties at the ailing parastatal before it wishes to place its financial maladministration burden onto South Africans.
On Mine Worker Deaths:
The NEC notes with concern the rising number of untimely deaths in our mines. The spate of deaths in our country’s mines is of great concern. The IFP calls on the Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe to urgently launch an investigation into Mine Worker Safety – as stricter measures need to be put in place at all our mines in the country.
National government has a responsibility to intervene and protect the rights of mineworkers. One death is one too many.
The NEC extends its condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of all those who have passed on.
VBS probe:
The IFP reiterates our call on President Ramaphosa to establish an inter-ministerial committee to include the Minister of Finance and the Minister in the Presidency to investigate allegations of collusion as COGTA Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize must recuse himself of any investigative process which his department institutes – he simply cannot be the player and a referee in a matter which implicates him.
On the World Cup in Russia:
We congratulate France for winning the world cup.
The IFP extends its hearty congratulations to the Russian Federation for hosting a successful FIFA World Cup 2018. To the Ambassador, Consular General and all representatives in South Africa on behalf of the Russian Federation, we say Thank you!
On Wimbledon:
The NEC congratulates South African sportsmen, Kevin Anderson on being the first in the final of the Wimbledon Championship. It is indeed a great honour for our country.
We also extend congratulations to Raven Claasen for representing South Africa in the Wimbledon’s Doubles.
On the passing of Ali Katt:
The NEC extends its condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of legendary musician Ali Katt. He died at the age of 60 after a lengthy illness. Another South African hero has fallen. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Enquiries:
Mkhuleko Hlengwa MP
IFP National Spokesperson
071 111 0539
