/ 2 July 2010

ANCYL apologises over Stofile comments

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in the eThekwini region has apologised for calling for Sports and Recreation Minister Makhenkesi Stofile to be fired.

“The ANC Youth League in the eThekwini region humbly apologises to the ANC and President Jacob Zuma for calling for the Sports and Recreation Minister, Reverend Makhenkesi Stofile, to be replaced,” eThekwini youth league chairperson Lindela Ngwazi said in a statement on Friday.

He also apologised to Stofile.

On Wednesday, the league in the region said Zuma should fire Stofile because he had performed “shockingly” during the world cup.

“Arts and Culture Minister Lulu Xingwana has always been in the spotlight since the start of the tournament and the sports minister was nowhere to be seen,” it said.

This statement led to a barrage of criticism by ANCYL provincial leaders and the national ANC office. Stofile did not respond to the accusation.

After a marathon meeting held at the ANC regional office on Thursday afternoon, the region agreed to issue an apology.

“The ANCYL regrets the insinuation and perceptions the press release has created.

“It was not our intention to cause any harm to the office of the president or the minister,” the statement said.

The youth league said it respected the “styles” each minister applied when executing his or her duties. It also accepted criticism from the ANC. — Sapa