Split action in George Multi-party Forum

Update

GEORGE NEWS - Four political parties withdrew from a planned protest march that is set to take place tomorrow, Thursday 24 August.

The PBI, Good, EFF and PA stated that a lack of inclusivity was the main reason for their decision not to take part in the event. By 11:00 today it was still uncertain whether the march would indeed continue.

George Municipality, when approached, indicated that they were waiting for clarity from the organising committee of the George Multi-party Forum (GMPF).

Last week these four parties, as well as the ANC, Icosa, religious leaders and civic organisations, announced their newly established George Multi-party Forum, along with the planned march for tomorrow.

The main purpose of the march was to address the cause and effect of high electricity rates, along with other issues such as the blocking of electricity meters, smart water meters and other services of the vulnerable communities.

In a joint media release by the PBI, Good, EFF and PA, these parties note that "certain individuals try to seek political relevance by following their own agenda".

"These individuals deemed it fit to deviate from meeting decisions," reads the statement.

"They have unilaterally decided that the fourway stop in Thembalethu should be the main point where people will congregate." Although it was planned that supporters from Pacaltsdorp would be ferried by taxis to a drop-off point in Nelson Mandela Boulevard, other communities such as Protea Park, Rosemoor, Lavalia, Blanco and Touwsranten have not been catered for.

"Since this march is way too important, it is our opinion that it should be an inclusive march for all communities," reads the statement.

The four parties that withdrew from the planned march call on their members and supporters not to join the march, should it take place, since "no logistical planning has been done for communities outside Thembalethu".

They warn the public to stay within the law: "If you participate, you will expose yourself to criminal prosecution in terms of the Gatherings Act and may be arrested." According to their statement an all-inclusive march will be arranged within the next couple of weeks.

From left are chairperson of the George Multi-party Forum pastor Boyce Saleni, deputy president of the PBI Roseline Tyler and the ANC's Langa Langa.