Statement by Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP, Inkatha Freedom Party
The statement on the evening of 1 April 2016 by the President of the Republic of South Africa falls far short of what many in our country expected in light of the judgement of the Constitutional Court.
It is hardly newsworthy that the President has agreed to abide by the order of the Constitutional Court and pay for the non-security upgrades at his home. There is no room for his agreement or disagreement. The ruling of the Constitutional Court stands irrespective of whether he accepts it or not.
At the very least South Africa deserved an unreserved apology, without a lengthy explanation of why the President feels he has at no point done anything wrong. This was obfuscation of the highest order. The IFP is deeply disappointed.
We have been equally disappointed throughout this two year process on the lack of guidance offered by the ANC to their leader. This is an abdication of responsibility that is no less serious than their ill-advised decision to use their parliamentary majority to absolve the President in the National Assembly.
The IFP cannot view the President’s statement tonight as being made in good faith. While he regrets the confusion and frustration this matter has caused, he has offered no apology for the exorbitant costs of litigation, establishing committees, in loco site inspections and the many other unnecessary aspects incurred during this debacle.
South Africa deserved more from the President.
