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The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal has taken a decision to boycott the Legislature
Sitting scheduled to take place this week on Diwali Day, Thursday, 23
October 2014.

"After we raised concerns about the failure by the Speaker to call a sitting
for about two months, she has now decided to organise a sitting for Thursday
which clashes with Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. We have therefore
decided to boycott this sitting as it shows disrespect to the Indian
community," said IFP Leader in the KZN Legislature, Mr Blessed Gwala, MPL.

"We have complained that there had been no sitting since the budgets were
passed in August this year leading to concerns as to why the Speaker has not
convened the House for such a prolonged period. Now the Speaker has decided
to convene the sitting on a religious day for the Hindu community,"
continued Mr Gwala.

"There is no point in the Premier taking out expensive adverts at tax
payer’s cost to wish the Hindu community a happy Diwali when the Speaker
shows such disrespect.  We have Honourable Members and members of Staff at
the Legislature who are Hindus and they need to be with their families on
this auspicious day. Is the ANC showing disrespect to the Hindu community?
We cannot allow a situation where the Speaker holds us to ransom by
convening the Sitting while there is such an important religious
celebration," concluded Mr Gwala.

Issued by IFP