Mandela Honour Befitting Despite Municipal Workers' Disrespect

Press Release
13 May 2008
Tshwane Freedom of the City for Former President Mandela
The Leader of the Democratic Alliance in the Tshwane Metrpolitan Municpal Council, Fred Nel, today conveyed his party’s heartfelt congratulations to South Africa’s first democratic president Mr Nelson Mandela on being awarded freedom of the city.
“This is a very befitting tribute to the most popular president our country ever had. It is specially befitting that South Africa’s capital city bestows this honour on President Mandela who was inaugurated in Pretoria in 1994. I am confident that Pretoria is proud to be associated with this most important event in our history and one of the world’s leading icons in the fight for democracy.” Said Fred Nel.
“It is our responsibility to sustain this image of a democratic South Africa in the spirit that was pioneered by President Mandela by living as true democrats. We need to honour his memory and his massive contribution to nation building as democrats.” Nel concluded.

In a late addition Fred Nel also uttered the DA's shock at the behaviour of SAMWU members during the presentation of the freedom of the city to President Mandela. "The actions by the trade union members was in bad taste and not befitting of what was the honouring of one of South Africa's greatest leaders. Surely the leaders of the trade union knew and was aware of the actions planned at the city hall. They should be held responsible and accountable for their members' behaviour. I also call on SAMWU to apologise for their disrespectful behaviour." said Nel

Issued by Fred Nel, Leader DA Tshwane Caucus
Enquiries: Fred Nel: 0832632427