STATEMENT REGARDING THE PREMIER'S MOVE TO SILENCE STAFF

The FXI is saddened to note that the Premier feels compelled to make his staff members sign an oath of secrecy and to threaten that staff members could be dealt with severely should they make certain documentation available to other parties. Although we understand the frustrations the Premier is currently facing, we do not believe that his reaction is the appropriate one. The founding provisions of the Constitution include a commitment to ensure accountability and openness and all efforts should be made to fulfill the obligations placed on government in this regard.

The Constitution also provides people with the right to access to information. This right will gain more meaning once the government passes the Open Democracy Bill - currently at parliamentary committee stage - which FXI supports. Recognition of the importance to protect whistle-blowers is contained within the Bill which also provides them with considerable protection.

It is unfortunate that it is only now once the press have published the information regarding the controversy surrounding the lease, that the Premier has felt compelled to provide information on this subject as well as other issues. We believe that the lines of communication between government and its public should be used continuously and that a more open policy would avoid corruption and foster accountability.

Issued 6 May 1998

For further comment Mandla Seleoane (Chairperson) 083 602 5507 Laura Pollecutt (Exec. Director) 403 8403