The IFP wishes to raise its concern over Government's closing function of the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children, held at the Ben Marais Hall in the North West yesterday. In the midst of this function, Deputy President Motlanthe's supporters became very vocal in punting for his leadership of the ANC. Correctional Services' officials also joined in the pre-Mangaung fanfare.

IFP Spokesperson on Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Ms Liezl van der Merwe, said, "The function included slogans from the podium such as 'Viva ANC Viva', 'Viva Cosatu Viva', and 'Long live Jacob Zuma, Viva!' This was a Government function paid for by the taxpayer. ANC politicking should not have been allowed under any circumstances."

Van der Merwe continued, "I'm also concerned with the program. With it being a government function, it included Ministers, MECs and NGOs. But including COSATU on the program meant including the ANC. Therefore, opposition parties should have been allowed to give a message of support as well. This raises serious questions as to whether opposition parties should continue to support such functions."

In the absence of a government function which included the voices of all South Africans, the IFP wishes to reiterate its support for the fight against violence and abuse of women and children.

"The IFP will continue to fight this scourge resolutely wherever it manifests. We hope that the 16 Days of Activism campaign has resulted in real and meaningful change in the lives of ordinary women and children. The IFP specially thanks 'the UN family' for their contribution, and the bikers of 'Ride On, Speak Out' who drove throughout the continent to profile the fight against gender-based violence and raise a greater understanding and awareness in this regard," concluded van der Merwe.