Inkatha Freedom Party has slammed the African National Congress for inequalities relating to funerals, saying the level of ambiguity in its leadership is beyond illogical, “a joke to be precise.”
The IFP’s spokesperson on Community safety and Liaison, Blessed Gwala accused the ANC-led government of bending the Covid-19 national lockdown regulations during the funerals of its leaders and celebrities.
Under Level 3 of the lockdown, the regulations stated that not more than 50 people should be allowed to attend a funeral service.
Gwala released the searing statement on Thursday 16 July, a day before the funeral of the Zindzi Mandela, the daughter of former president Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
“Contrary to these regulations, we have seen the emergence of ‘aristocratic’ funerals, where ANC leaders and some celebrities are given preferential treatment. We have witnessed certain individuals receiving proper burials – holding funeral services, sometimes with more than 50 people attending the service – while ordinary citizens are receiving pauper-like burials.”
“We call upon the ANC government to practice introspection, and to realise the need to act responsibly and lead by example.”
“Health protocols and social distancing measures must be adhered to, in order to limit exposure of persons at the funeral to Covid-19,” he said.
Infuriated, Gwala ordered the government to “practice what they preach.”
