/ 10 May 2004

Boeremag plotted to replace Parliament

A parliament had been identified to replace the existing one to have been ousted in a rightwing coup d’état, the Boeremag treason trial heard on Monday.

State witness Lourens du Plessis told the Pretoria High Court he had been informed of the existence of such a body by accused number one Mike du Toit.

”He told me there was a parliament at ground level that could just take over after the coup.”

He did not know who would make up the new parliament.

Du Plessis continued his evidence of various meetings held across the country to plan the right-wing coup.

At these meetings, plans were discussed to take over military bases as well as the stockpiling of food, medical supplies and steel.

The gatherings were also aimed at identifying and recruiting supporters.

Du Plessis was testifying in the trial of 22 alleged members of the rightwing Boeremag organisation, standing trial for treason and terrorism.

The charge sheet also includes counts of murder, attempted murder and the illegal possession of arms, ammunition and explosives.

Du Plessis was arrested in connection with the case in August 2002 but charges were conditionally withdrawn in exchange for his

evidence. — Sapa