ACDP Expresses surprise at New ANC Chief Whip Appointment

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Meshoe MP- ACDP

Tuesday, 04 December 2001


The African Christian Democratic Party expressed surprise that an experienced man like Geoff Doidge has not been appointed as the new ANC Chief Whip.

ACDP Leader, Reverend Kenneth Meshoe said that he was surprised at the announcement of Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula’s appointment as chief whip of the ANC. He said that Mr Doidge is the most experienced ANC whip, especially since he has served under the two previous ANC Chief Whips, Mr Max Sisulu and Mr Tony Yengeni.

Rev Meshoe said that he had thought that Geoff Doidge would be the obvious candidate, and that the only reason he could see for Mr Doidge’s disqualification is that he belonged to the wrong tribe. “Of the three ANC Chief Whips past and present, all are Xhosa and we as the ACDP see this as nothing but tribalism”, he said.

Rev Meshoe urged the ANC to disregard tribe or race when appointing people to positions. He further reassured Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula that the ACDP does not have a problem with her as person. He expressed his respect for Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and said that he trusted that she would continue to promote tolerance among all parties in parliament.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information please call Rev. Kenneth Meshoe at (021) 4033521 or ACDP Media Liaison Liza Bloemetje at 082 4781037