/ 18 February 2009

Lekota considers legal action over loss of guards

Congress of the People (Cope) leader Mosiuoa Lekota is considering a legal challenge against Safety and Security Minister Nathi Mthethwa’s decision to take away his bodyguards, the party said on Tuesday.

”We are considering taking legal action against the minister,” party spokesperson Phillip Dexter told Sapa.

Mthethwa made an announcement on Monday that there was no need for the government to provide Lekota with bodyguards as his life was not in danger.

”Based on the report that I received it is clear that Mr Lekota is not under any threat and this therefore does not justify the continuation of this service. However if the need may arise, this decision may be reviewed,” Mthethwa said.

He said he came to this conclusion after reading the recommendations contained in a report ”outlining the threat analysis of key personnel who resigned from Cabinet late last year”.

Several ministers resigned last year out of loyalty to ousted president Thabo Mbeki.

Lekota, the former defence minister, has since started a breakaway party, Cope. Since then, Lekota has claimed more than once that his life was in danger and that he needed protection.

But Mthethwa disagreed.

”According to the report, there’s no existing threat that necessitates the continuation of the service. However, as the situation changes, this arrangement will be reviewed periodically,” read the statement released by his office.

”According to the ministerial handbook that serves as a guide on these matters, ministers are entitled for this service only for a month after they’ve resigned.

”However, ex-ministers can apply for the continuation of the service and a threat analysis will be undertaken, of which its recommendation will indicate if this service should continue or not.” — Sapa