/ 15 January 2007

First opportunity to consider Goniwe decision is March

The first opportunity for the ruling party to consider whether former chief whip Mbulelo Goniwe’s dismissal can be reviewed will only be in March.

The announcement by the African National Congress (ANC) on Monday follows reports that the matter is scheduled to be discussed at a high-level meeting.

Last month, an ANC party disciplinary committee, led by Kader Asmal, found Goniwe guilty of sexually harassing parliamentary assistant Nomawele Njongo.

He was dismissed, but has appealed against the ruling.

Monday’s statement added that according to the ANC constitution, ”the decisions of the national disciplinary committee shall be final except that the NEC [national executive committee] may, in its discretion, review a decision.” — Sapa