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Tearful Niehaus admits fraud

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Feb 13 2009 07:51

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He has been entrusted by the ANC with the strategic job of spokesperson. But Carl Niehaus has left a broad trail of bad debt and broken promises behind him.

Confronted this week with allegations that he owed hundreds of thousands of rands to politicians and influential businessmen and committed fraud while working for the Gauteng provincial government, a tearful Niehaus admitted that he:

Forged signatures while he was chief executive of the Gauteng Economic Development Agency (Geda) before resigning in December 2005;
Borrowed money over a six-year period from some of the brightest stars of the ANC and business galaxy, much of which he has not paid back;
Asked to be connected to Brett Kebble because he was “desperate for financial help”;
Had to leave a top job at Deloitte and Touche in 2003 after his financial woes became embarrassing;
Owed the Rhema Church more than R700 000 when he was asked to resign from his post as chief executive and spokesperson by a full board meeting in 2004; and
Had to repay R24 000 to director general in the presidency Frank Chikane when he left his job there under a cloud in 2004.

Niehaus, appointed ANC spokesperson in November 2008, also admitted to using the Rhema Church’s travel agent to book a holiday for himself and his wife in Zanzibar and to using the presidency’s travel agent to book flights and a trip to Durban for his former wife.

But he denied allegations by his co-workers at the time that he intended to pass off the trips as work expenses. He disputed accounts that he left the presidency amid claims of financial impropriety and ran up implausible expense accounts at Deloitte.

Among those he asked for financial assistance from are Arts and Culture Minister Pallo Jordan, ANC empowerment magnates Saki Macozoma, Tokyo Sexwale and Cyril Ramaphosa, Absa chair and former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank Gill Marcus and mining tycoon Rick Menell.

When powerful friends could not rescue him from what he described as “the devastation of debt” he drifted into seemingly outright criminal conduct.

In 2005, after just seven months as Geda chief executive, responsible for handling millions of rands of transactions, he wrote a fraudulent letter and forged the signatures of then finance minister and now Gauteng Premier Paul Mashatile, transport minister Ignatius Jacobs, education minister and now ANC Women’s League president Angie Motshekga and agriculture minister Khabisi Mosunkutu.

The letter was intended to secure a loan for Niehaus from a businessman who hoped to use it to ensure favourable treatment from the Gauteng government on property deals.

Niehaus confessed this fraud to Mashatile, who told him to quit or face a disciplinary inquiry. Niehaus resigned on December 9 2005.

Told this week of a long list of former employers and creditors who told the Mail & Guardian about their dealings with him, Niehaus broke down.

CONTINUES BELOW

“Most of what you’ve confronted me with is true. I wish it wasn’t. I’ve made massive mistakes and I’ve disappointed a lot of people terribly. I’ve no illusions that if you publish this article it will mean the end of my career,” he said, weeping.

“I asked people like Saki Macozoma, Cyril Ramaphosa, Tokyo Sexwale, Gill Marcus, Pallo Jordan and Rick Mennell to help me financially.

“I was down and out. Some of them gave me money and some didn’t. I am terribly indebted. I also received money from Brett Kebble,” Niehaus said.

Niehaus said he asked Macozoma to introduce him to Kebble. “I asked for the meeting. Saki was my friend and I asked him to help me out. I asked to be introduced to Kebble and I met him three times.

“Kebble gave me R70 000 for communications work. He still owed me money. I’m paying R100 000 back because I can’t fight the liquidators -- there was no contract, only a verbal agreement. I can’t prove anything and I don’t have the money to go to court,” he said.

Niehaus is locked in a battle with the ANC’s other spin doctor, Jesse Duarte, who is said to be extremely unhappy with the circumstances of his appointment.

Party insiders say he was headhunted for the role by ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe, angering Duarte, the incumbent. She is understood to be reluctant to stay on after elections.

Those who have worked with Niehaus over the past 14 years and lent him cash to fund his and his former wife, Linda Thango’s, extravagant lifestyle say they are not surprised things turned sour.

Niehaus has always “over-promised and under-delivered”, they say.

Over the past decade he has resigned from most jobs under pressure or earlier than his contract stipulated because of debt or unhappiness with the management of his financial affairs.

Niehaus became a household name when, as an anti-apartheid activist, he was found guilty of high treason and sentenced to 15 years in jail in 1983.

He became Nelson Mandela’s spokesperson in 1994 and was then ambassador to The Netherlands.

On his return to South Africa he briefly worked at the NGO Nicro before his relationship with Mandela helped him secure a job at audit firm Deloitte and Touche in Gauteng and in The Netherlands.

While at Deloitte he was embroiled in legal action after failing to honour an offer to purchase an expensive house on Prinzen Gracht, one of Amsterdam’s most prestigious addresses. The penalty for cancellation was more than R1-million. This debt sent him into a financial tailspin.

“I felt I had to resign because Deloitte have strong ethics around their partners -- they must have their financial dealings order,” Niehaus said.

A former partner at Deloitte, who asked not to be named, said Niehaus was “always” in financial crisis and that the Prinzen Gracht debacle had not led to his ousting.

“He borrowed money from partners at Deloitte. He also asked me for money but I told him I’m not a bank.

“He once booked a helicopter to fly from Sun City to Johannesburg at huge expense. He claimed to have lost his credit cards on at least two occasions [when improper expenses appeared on the statement] and asked people to help him out [with hotel bills]. He also knew somebody in Nedbank who helped him out.

“He insisted on a huge salary -- more than others on the same level. We paid him because he promised to bring political work to the company. That didn’t materialise.”

Another source, also a partner when Niehaus worked at Deloitte, said that when Niehaus resigned the firm wrote off large sums he still owed.

Chief executive Grant Gelink said: “To the best of my knowledge Niehaus didn’t owe Deloitte any money when he left, but I don’t know if money was written off. I wasn’t CEO at the time.”

Niehaus denied owing the company money, adding: “I don’t recall ever claiming money from Nedbank because of a stolen card.”

On the Sun City helicpter flight he said he had addressed a conference at KwaMaritane and had to be in Johannesburg an hour later “for the launch of the strategic communications division. The CEO questioned me months later about this expense and accepted my explanation.”

He said he had borrowed money only from one Deloitte partner and had “paid it back in full”.

Niehaus’s financial troubles deepened when he divorced his wife and co-accused in his terrorism trail, Jansie, and married Linda Thango.

Four sources who worked closely with him after 2002 said Thango, a former non-executive director of African Media Entertainment and management consultant, was central to his extravagant lifestyle.

“His wife wanted all the best toys: holidays, jewels, clothes, shoes and shopping, shopping, shopping. Carl got sucked into that lifestyle, loved it and lived way beyond his means,” said one of his former ANC bosses.

Others said he had always been attracted to the trappings of wealth, but that Jansie had kept a tight rein on the family finances. Niehaus himself insists that he must take responsibility.

He said: “I never said no [to Linda]. I thought this is the way you keep love -- you buy it. I should have been firm and said: ‘No more. We can’t live like this.’ I didn’t and I fell into the devastation of debt.”

After his departure from Deloitte Niehaus was “rescued”, as one government official put it, in 2004 by a job in the presidency working on celebrations planned for a “decade of democracy”.

A top presidency official who oversaw his work said: “We terminated his contract early because he didn’t complete the work he was meant to do. He turned out to be inefficient. He himself felt he had to leave -- there was no fight.”

The official added: “He took his wife to Durban and used the presidency’s money to pay for the hotel. We told him that’s unauthorised expenditure and you need to pay it back now.” Niehaus denies his contract was terminated prematurely, adding that he does not remember the Durban trip.

“I worked there and finished my contract. I was paid a R24 000 advance, which I paid back to Frank Chikane.

“I suppose it’s not impossible that I went to Durban during that time, because my wife’s mother lived there,” he said. After leaving the presidency in mid-2004 Niehaus was appointed Rhema Church chief executive and spokesperson.

He admitted to being asked to leave Rhema after working there for four years “because of a disagreement about the size of my loan with the church, among other things”.

Rhema continues to insist that he left amicably and there were no financial irregularities.

“[Church leader] Ray McCauley organised a staff loan for me. They bought me a car and agreed to pay a large amount to [the seller of the Prinzen Gracht house].

“The financial officer and I increased this loan a number of times and Ray was very unhappy because it was not done with his knowledge. I resigned,” Niehaus said.

Niehaus also confirmed using Rhema’s travel agent to book a holiday in Zanzibar. While employed by the church he bought himself a Porsche and a C-Class Mercedes Benz.

Rhema gave Niehaus six months to repay R700 000. Mashatile’s offer to him to head Geda was, therefore, a lifesaver -- which he admits abusing.

On the fraudulent letter in which he forged the signatures of senior Gauteng government officials, he said: “Pierre Swart managed a company called Blue Label, which offered to lend me the money to repay the Rhema debt. I was absolutely desperate, because if I didn’t repay it I would’ve had to sell the townhouse in my wife’s name that I had given as surety.

“But there was a hook. In exchange for the loan they wanted a letter committing various provincial ministries to favouring them when they wanted to rent, sell or lease government buildings in the Johannesburg CBD.”

Buildings sold with lease agreements in place are worth much more than empty structures, a developer told the M&G.

“I was very desperate but what I did was terrible. After I wrote the letter and handed it over I immediately knew that I had done the worst thing in my life.

“I went to see Mashatile. I confessed that I’m deeply compromised and he was deeply disappointed. I resigned immediately.”

Former Gauteng premier and now Congress of the People leader Mbhazima Shilowa confirmed Mashatile told him that Niehaus was asked to leave over “financial impropriety”.

Blue Label has major contracts with Vodacom and Telkom. The company made no comment.

Said Niehaus: “The ANC job is a lifesaver for me and things have gone wrong now in a terrible way. I have to be trustworthy to do my job. I live under no illusions about what this article can do to my life. I wish I could turn back the clock.”

TOPICS IN THIS ARTICLE

People

Carl Niehaus

Organisations

African National Congress

Comments

It has bee reported that he admitted his crimes to the A.N.C. BEFORE he was employed which almost lends belief to the thought that being a crook is mandatory to belong to that organisation.
Get rid of him.

brian dixon on February 13, 2009, 8:21 am

It's not what the article has done, Carl you really did it yourself. The really commendable thing is that you have come clean and will have the most precious of your posessions back, your personal integrity. In the end with your attitude society will forgive you. I know you are not alone in doing what you have done, there are so many people who are new to power and influence that they are not able to handle properly. The pressure to live up to the expectations of others, to make up for years of loss is very great. My view is that South Africa did not go through a period of reeducation for all of its citizens, no matter what their colour or background, when things change in the dramatic way they have done, everybody needs new attitudes and skills to be able to handle the changes in status and responsibility. If we don't do this the consequence not only for white collar crime, but crime in general are and will be devastating.

Andrew Lawrence on February 13, 2009, 8:29 am

So, we are not surprised. This is totally in keeping with what one will expect, and still see in the days to come, of the anc comrades. Kebble lent money to about all the anc departments and factions, and ended up being taken to court. So, ol' Carl, don't be tearful - just your sins catching up mate.

Des Palm on February 13, 2009, 8:40 am

This is painfull and he needs an urgent assistant or else.. am afraid. Many people commit many mistakes but I have never seen a man who admits his mistakes to this extend. Am conviced through a proper professional help, he will be a better person again. What a painful lesson for many of us to learn from.

Sasabona Manganye on February 13, 2009, 8:43 am

Please leave poor Niehaus alone, everybody have the past that they are ashamed of and that does not be the reason why they should not live a normal life without being disturbed

Kwena Mokgohloa on February 13, 2009, 8:45 am

Reminds me of the book and movie " Cofessions of a Gambler". Lets call for more of these:
Ethics!Ethics! Morals! Morals! Exemplary! Leading by Example! Role model!Working for what you have!Stop abuse of power and position to influence personal financial gain. Make South Africa Proud to have you as a Leader. Enrich the poor and lift up the disadvantaged and those who cannot do things for themselves.

Simphiwe Kakaza on February 13, 2009, 8:52 am

“We the Living” capitalists find it very hard to forgive you, but against all our principles, we do – we after all, are the ones with compassionate hearts. How is it that the individuals who brag about their supposed caring about the poor, are the ones that rip of the poor. Look at the 5 people that Obama wanted in his cabinet – they all had to withdraw because they stole money from the poor people, black poor people..

The fact that you stole money is nothing, nê, what hurts you is that you have been caught, like you say “Something like this becoming public…”. Compare yourself morally with someone who cares about (HIV positive) Africans and the poor – ag, like, George W. Bush, and measure yourself against him,. Or morally who cares more about the poor, you, high flying champagne socialist, fake communist like you, or Margaret Thatcher? Be honest – ah sorry it is not in your nature.

I sort of liked you, thought you had principles. I thought you used your intellect to advance the issues of the poor, but no. I wish you luck, I don’t know how you must feel. I wish you a speedy recovery, lets see you, rehabilitated, in the future.

Vic Jong on February 13, 2009, 8:56 am

Wonderful assurance of the ANC employee screening process, isn't it? Proof that struggle credentials have more weight than integrity, or actual qualifications. I love this country.

Simon Hartley on February 13, 2009, 8:58 am

Stinking as it is,but it is breath of fresh air. Here is someone who at least reflects the semblence of a cadre of the movement. For me it is one of the features that differentiated us to any of the so called revolutionary cadres.That is to tell the brutal truth and to claim no easy victories. Catastrophic as it is he does not take or hold the country at ransom tossing us from pillar to post in defence of his crooked ways. Regrettably the damage has been made and it is unfortunately irreparable. There are a tens and tens of crooks in the fold of the movement who behave as if they have made a pact with the devil, never to come out clean. Hopefully the bravery of this gentlemen will rub on to them, hopefully they can still be recycled. The worst case scenario they will be retired to the dustbin of history or be hunged in the museum of those who compromised the liberation of the people for their selfish ends.

Loyiso Nduku on February 13, 2009, 8:59 am

This is a clear indication that the ANC does not practice high morality, how can they appoint someone after he committed such fraudulent activities. This is just a tip of an iceberg. when you dont want secrets to come out you are prepared to kill or die for an individual. I wonder who will be next. Just as Koos van der merwe said yesterday everytime when Malema speaks the opposition parties rejoice because he is canvassing for them. With immediate i tender my resignation from the ANC because i cant take it any further embarassment. Is there any party out ther which uphold high morality, which i can join.

Tumi Gopane

Tumi on February 13, 2009, 9:02 am

I don't think that anyone should be too harsh on a personal level that someone has got themselves mired in debt, or lived a too-extravagant lifestyle. This is a common failing. The Bibnle says, "Judge not, lest ye be judged" (note that this does not mean that these things shouyld be tolerated where positions of trust are involved).

What is of note is that in some business, church and political circles, there seems to be some tolerance of these things (as though tbey are not strange), and the willingness to "make a plan" to allow favoured sons to continue a lavish luifestyle.

I am also interested that the current Premier of Gauteng was willing to overlook the crime of fraud - does this make him an accessory after the fact? I wonder what his constitutional duty was at that point.

It is also distressing that, seemingly, a top firm can agree to higher remuneration for someone because they can supposedly bring in more government work.

And then. The ANC, knowing much of this background, sees fit to employ Mr Niehaus as a spokesman! Something is clearly wrong with our country, when these issues are viewed as minor obstacles, where delivery and not getting caught seem, to be the main criteria.

Mike Atkins on February 13, 2009, 9:07 am

Let the ANC keep the services of Julius Malema, Carl Niehaus, Jacob Zuma and the like. This way the voting public of South Africa will be able to see what type of leaders they will be voting into power on the 22nd of April: foul-mouthed, disrespectful idiots, forgers of signatures and fraudsters, and people who think it is acceptable to have multiple wives in the 21st century.

I'm ashamed to say i voted for the ANC in every election since 1994, but i won't make that mistake again.

Ken Halland on February 13, 2009, 9:10 am

What wonderful news about the lovely "Dr"Carl Niehaus! We always knew he was bent, but even cheating the Rhema Church! Oh dear Carl...but you are in good company in the ANC...a totally non racially corrupt organisation. I am ashamed of myself for once voting for it!

Derek James

derek james on February 13, 2009, 9:13 am

I find it hard to beliueve that anyone in the ANC would commit fraud. There must be a plot against the ANC... this is mis / dis - information. The ANC is a party that stands for integrity and justice, respect for law and moral regeneration. I still don't believe it. And Mr Niehaus - a straight talking man of stature and integrity... well, I never!!!

Adam Pike on February 13, 2009, 9:23 am

There is time to laugh and time to cry
Time to celebrate and time to mourn

I think this is time to mourn, we are can't laugh when somebody is falling. Such stories are supposed to be learning curve for all us in the manner we live our lives. Let Carl's confession be not in vain ,at least let somebody learn from it.

Carl I feel terrible sorry man about your experience and I suppose you are hurting out a lot. But this is time for you to look upon God because it is only through that we can overcome seductions of the wealth and we transcend the ambiguities of the materialism. In the midst of your shame God is standing ready to embrace you like a prodigal son and to give you a new blanket.

Be strong man, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Lazola Jozi on February 13, 2009, 9:26 am

Eish Carl, this is sad...I do want the detail around the involvement of Blue Label & other 'corruptors' to be fleshed out.

frank nnete on February 13, 2009, 9:27 am

How sad! I'm not surprised.

Sizwe Mabizela on February 13, 2009, 9:56 am

I'm less than sympathetic towards Mr Niehaus. It's not as if he has committed only one fraud - he has a history going back a long way. Nor did he 'confess' of his own accord, but only once he was 'outed' by the Mail and Guardian. So much for integrity, honesty and ethics. I daresay, however, that the ANC will overlook this as it overlooks the misdemeanours of so many of its high profile members. Which is a pity because it probably means we will have to continue listening to Mr Niehaus' sanctimonious ranting and preaching and carping at everyone who dares to criticise the actions and integrity of his party and those who represent it.

Adrienne Murray on February 13, 2009, 10:05 am

This is a challenging time for the ANC. These stories make our critics drink a toast of happiness. They must not forget that the ANC is more than individuals, if one person is tainted, there are still many people in the ANC who are available to lead the Movement to the future. It is mostly because of immaturity of ANC critics to think that we support ANC because of certain individual persons. Individual persons like comrades Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, Carl Niehaus will retire from ANC activities at any time when they feel like. Other people including Mosioua Lekota, Mluleki George, Mbazima Shilowa will sell our freedom to the wrong people. Trying times in the life of the ANC will surely come and go but the ANC will live and soldier-on. We have many capable people in the ANC that will lead the organisation into the future. So, people stop thinking that by destroying few individuals of the ANC you will succeed in destroying the entire ANC. We are not in ANC for glorifying certain individuals. If they have done something wrong they will have to deal with it in their own terms. Come 2011 we will be looking back at 100 years of ANC's life and we will say we come a longway with our Movement. We had successes and challenges but
the ANC survived all of these things.

Mumba Phaka on February 13, 2009, 10:20 am

It's easy to be sorry after you have been caught - if he was really sorry for what he'd done he would have made some sort of effort to right the wrongs, as it is he obviously continued living the high life at other people's expense. There seems to be a prevailing attitude in South Africa that corruption happens everywhere, and is thus ok - while I agree that it does occur everywhere, I think without public disapproval and public pressure on government to not be corrupt it quickly gets out of control. Whenever government acts in a way that is not in the interests of the people it is abusing their vote.

Matthew de Nobrega on February 13, 2009, 10:22 am

Carl Niehaus is not the only big mouth in his party that has a lot of skeletons in the political closet. we all hope that he is not the only one to be exposed. It is very true that there is little difference between politicians and baby diapers - they have to be changed regularly, and for the same reason.

daniel koen on February 13, 2009, 10:38 am

There are many like Carl in our mist unfortunalelly whether in Goverment or Private Sector.Hopefully after this episode in his life, surelly he will be able to find forever peace something we rarelly experience.Dumisani Peter

Dumisani Peter on February 13, 2009, 10:39 am

its sad to read all this regarding an ANC spokesperson, surely the organisation should have thoroughly checked his profile, and thought more carefully about the appointment.

as for Niehaus, its payback time - for you reap what you saw. this was going to catch up with you at some point in time, and the time is now. so be strong and face the music.

thandiwe khumalo on February 13, 2009, 10:58 am

Lets forgive him for being honest. How many corrupt leaders out there who knows they did worse things compared to cde Carl who are refussing to come out?

Harry Ngoveni on February 13, 2009, 11:06 am

The trouble with politics is that it attracts all the wrong types.

Com Entary on February 13, 2009, 11:09 am

It's all good and well to lament for a public figure for falling from grace and for the personal grief and suffering he is enduring.

However, this man committed fraud. Not speculation, he admitted it, in print and on a live interview on radio this morning, Friday 13 Feb.

He admitted that when he was employed by the ANC as spokesperson, he played open cards and informed the ANC at the time of all this. He admitted that it was going to be an internal matter with the ANC and that both he and the ANC wished this not get out into the public.

From his explanation of what he did, he committed a crime. By inference, the ANC committed a crime by knowingly keeping information of a crime from the police. Will Carl be investigated and tried for committing fraud? Will the ANC be investigated and tried for withholding information of a crime and colluding with a self confessed criminal? We can just wait and see.

He's not a good samaritan for confessing. He was confronted with the facts. He was caught out. I believe he represents what is reprehensible about our society - It's ok to do crime, just as long as you're not caught.

I have empathy with him and his family for an exceptionally difficult and uncertain time they are entering. But why do we feel sorry for a criminal. Nobody forced him to live beyond his means?

Bad luck mate and say hi to Shabir!

Johannes Geyer on February 13, 2009, 11:14 am

This had to come out sometime, as too many people knew about his problem for many, many years but kept quiet for political reasons. For too long he was protected by people high up in the ANC. This is probably by no means everything. For those who feel sorry for him now: what about people who took the flak for him – like the black accountant who was at Rhema for 20 years and lost his job.

Anli Serfontein on February 13, 2009, 11:14 am

Amazing, I can be understanding (with reservation and some sympathy) on the personal debt issues. We are all human, we make mistakes and sometimes get into financial difficulties. However, borrowing beyond ones means to sustain an extravagent lifestyle is certainly over the top. The Porche is going too far and not necessary if you cannot afford it.

Fraud is a criminal offence that calls for jail time. Just ask Tony Yengeni and Allan Boesak. That is unforgiveable.

But the sting is in the ANC's appointment of Mr Niehaus. They must have knonw about his shady past (particularly the government misdemeanors). These are checks you do before appointing someone to the job. Particularly as he was the front image of the ANC as it's spokesman. Granted, he was articulate, presented himself well and intelligently. Hi eloquent speaking makes one sit up and take notice. The complete spin doctor. Carl Niehaus became synonomous with the ANC and the image being projected to the voting public. He was slamming corruption and defending Jacob Zuma in his legal woes with all the typical ANC spin. How can the ANC attempt to sustain credibility when the very image they are projecting is so tainted with characters embroiled in fraud and corruption. Innocent until proven guilty - yes. But that is only a legal argument. It is not supprising that Jacob Zuma is deprately trying to avoid a court appearance to answer criminal charges. He certailny has a lot to hide .... and lose.

Les Wil on February 13, 2009, 11:15 am

Guys! This is no longer an I-GOTCHA-MATTER, It's serious its about a human being suffering, I dont know how people manage to see an amusing part of this. It's so inhuman to laugh at someone who's slow dying with stress...

Let's open up an charity fund for people to donate, or send sympathising messages on the internet. Anyone with computer skills to establish this website? If so, please assist us & lets do something about Carl.

I'll be first to donate R100, Come'on guys, let's put politics aside & assist our fellow South African.

on February 13, 2009, 11:19 am

Ladies and Gentlemen there is no pity to be thrown aroung here at all. For sure we have been down and to the deep end with our own personal financies all of us at one point in our lives and to tell you the HONEST TRUTH WE WERE EARNING PEANUTS, very little salaries. What this guy has done is greed, maladministration and abuse of power...I am not judging him, I am not laughing at him NO NOT AT ALL but giving clarity to those wh confuse things. The one lesson we do when were experience financial strain, we try and lower our standard of living, move out of fancy flat to granny flat, down gradethe car, carry lunch box with fat cakes, pap from last night supper all sorts of money saving tricks and tips. But what did he do? He went on playing big and conning anyone he comes along. I repeat its not a mistake in the Bible its said "Men will reap the fruits of your hard labour" simple means you will work for everything, Not steal, not rob people, not create debt on top of one another. Do you want to say a man of Carl's Calibre doesn't know a thing or two about finance? Please guys don't play with your pitty its needed somewhere in Ruanda you can send it there if not neede here in South Africa. Please stop abusing the Holy Scriptures to fit unholy situations which were just done purposely to further selfish individual purposes at the expense of others. I support and love ANC not the bad practices. In everything guys you must know there are consquences...I have loved the way this guy (Carl) does he spokesmanship but GUYS we have to CRY FOR OUR SINS...for sure we are burning where we are!Let Carl answer for himself..One day each one of us will have to answer herself or himself. Being greedy must no be anyone's fun! Live within your means, Grow up and Be responsible.

Simphiwe Kakaza on February 13, 2009, 11:27 am

I'm just surprised that Carl Nehouws's alleged criminal activities seem to be getting such a huge favourable reception. The man did these for years! He simply confessed when caught. So what is the message here? Commit a crime, say sorry and all is forgiven? Why do we treat him any more different from Zuma? What is mores concerning he disclosed his criminal activities to the ANC which promptly hired him and kept the information from the police. There is also a suggestion that he should keep his job? Well he is in good company. The ANC is headed by a criminal accused and its spokesperson has just confessed to committing fraud; and we see nothing wrong in this?

Kaycee Potong on February 13, 2009, 11:35 am

Shame on you Derek James. Humanity dictates never to spit on a fallen man. How many out there that can not even admit doing wrong. Great Carl did and I'm proud of him.

He did not take a gun and point it at his head. He will bounce back. Let those who have nothing to rejoice on, rejoice on this but someone said

"Our hopes are not in never falling, but in rising after each and every fall"

Sakkie Vukaphi on February 13, 2009, 11:43 am

Why Carl why, were you excluded from BEE transactions because you are white. No this BEE and AA must be revisited to include cadres like Carl and they family's who could not stomach watching on the African cadres getting the shares in the mines, financial institutions and telecom business.

Surely all those liberals and communist that supported the struggle and were active cadres were victims of the apartheid system. That's why the sports portfolio wanted Luke Waston to be included on the springboks as a PDI.

Anyway they say "Each struggle has its own casualties" I feel for Carl. I am sure he will COPE under the circumstances.

POLITICS - A GAME OF POWER TO RULE

Simnikiwe Xawuka on February 13, 2009, 11:43 am

The NIEHAUS Meltdown

I feel that someone is going to ask for a bail-out plan for himself. I would not be suppressed if I hear on radio and TV statements like: “what to help NIEHAUS SMS 1234 to 4321 and donate R5.00”

We as South Africans are very quick to sympathise with politicians who after we have entrusted them with all our trust disappoint us. And we quick to use the Bible and quote about the prodigal sons, that behaviour should just be stopped. Let this guy handle his woes himself.

When he was enjoying himself and tropical Irelands and five star hotels we were not there, now that the fun is over we must come in and be nice to him, no, I don’t think so!

The only reason that this guy confessed is because he does not have the money to go to court and fight all of this. I am pretty sure that he thought, by being employed as the ANC spokesperson he would land himself one of the nice lawyers at the ANC ranks. Just imagine these headlines. “Top ANC officials on a litany of corruption, fraud and money laundering to appear in court”.

The only thing I have learnt from this whole saga is that, it helps to know people in high places especially politicians. Another important lesson is that our tax money is grossly misused by those in power.

Good thing it happened before we South African flux at the voting stations: South African exercise that VOTE and take away that two-thirds.

Cebisa Mahlukwana on February 13, 2009, 11:43 am

Where theres smoke theres fire, this is just smoke...more fire is coming. There are so many people involved, am concerned about Mashatile's role in this, why did'nt he report this? Is he involved? Anyway, I commend you Carl for speaking out like this. I so wish all other leaders with challenges of this nature could come out.

This is a lesson for all of us, anyone who adores material things and an extravagant lifestyle like Carl can find themselves in this type of situation. You will be ok Carl, this is not the end of the world, however am worried about the poor people of our country, who cannot even read about your confession, yet they also have been compromised by your actions.

The ANC should take a long hard look at the people they elect for leadership positions. Is this what they call democracy? Democracy to steal from the poor at the expense of the taxpayers?

Thandeka Mapi on February 13, 2009, 11:49 am

Niehaus, I admire the courage you showed in fighting apartheid. That took real courage. Most of us (black & white were too shit-scared). I admire your confession (it seems as though you are truly confessing all - make sure you are, or this, too will be revealed to be a sham). Even though you were found out, rather than self-confessed, at least it seems you're not resorting to the usual lies and denial.

The only thing you have left is complete honesty. Tell EVERYTHING. Spare no-one. Let absolute honesty take the place of loyalty (to people or organisations). Leave one lie unexposed and you will always still be under a cloud of fear that it gets revealed.

When you have cleared the air COMPLETELY, you can write a book and start a new career. Rhema, ANC, politicians, accountants, businessmen, ladies who shop - I mean you have consorted with some of the biggest crooks in the world! Tell your story without fear or favour. It'll be cathartic, and it will join fighting apartheid in being the second truly good thing you have done in your life.

You may yet have the best part of your life ahead of you.

pete ess on February 13, 2009, 11:49 am

What a Friday 13th! What dirty linens? So much for a liberator! The question is who is different?

malose nyatlo on February 13, 2009, 11:53 am

But I will say something: I respect Mr Niehuas' decision to bite the bullet without hiding behind the organisation he works for, like so many of his colleagues.

Adam Pike on February 13, 2009, 11:57 am

I hope those who are laughing are financially sound. I respect cde Carl for owning up. A lot of people in South Africa are facing his dilemma(financially) however they are hiding in their cocoons. Others are not afforded employment opprortunities based on our judgement of their credit standing. Those who live in glass houses should not be throwing stones. Unfortunately we don't have all your records.

Pankie Moloi on February 13, 2009, 11:58 am

This is really sad and most importantly concerning, it makes one wonder how many of our leaders have a clean record. It looks like we are heading to phase where all our leaders are linked to wrong doing of some sort. We can't afford to have leaders who can't even take care of their own finances. My grand mother used to tell me that "you can not rob Peter to pay Paul and vice versa" as at the end of the day the debt still remains. There are lessons to be learnt out of the Niehaus situation, financial planning is crucial.

My only advice to you Mr. Niehaus is to "soldier on" and not make the same mistakes again. At least unlike the other leaders you are not denying and offering to resign. If you resign, how will you pay your debts?

Sivuyile Tshelu on February 13, 2009, 12:09 pm

So unfortunate that it had to come to this.The ANC should learn never to recycle politicians. There is plenty of cadreship in the country and in the ANC.Those who left active public office should remain so. We had forgotten that Carl Niehaus existed until he resurfaced with all his baggage which also begs the question: Who is suppose to have a security clearance in the public office? How many state secrets had been shared with a man who is so compromised?Come on people! Give us leadership and we know there are good leaders within the inner circle of the ANC.Sipiwo Pahlane

Sipiwo Pahlane on February 13, 2009, 12:11 pm

There is so much pressure on our politicians and I guarantee he is not the only one. It is inexcusable but the fact that he admits it to this extent must be liberating to him, such is the trap of a public life. I wish him well in his future endeavors and may we all learn from this, never subject ourselves to try and be what we're not. Life is beautiful in it's simplicity. I hate the seduction of stuff...

Edwin Ketshabile on February 13, 2009, 12:15 pm

Poor chap, one might say. And it is commendable that he has come clean, as it were.

But nevertheless, this is so very telling, and so very typical, of the foulness in the State of SA. The ANC is riddled, from high to low, and low to high again, with crookery and chicanery of every sort. SA is a nation of desperately poor people, and a minority of disgustingly rich or wannabe rich semi-people. By this I do not mean that thing which all academics and journalists love to call glibly "the white -- or black --middle class". I mean the reeking closed circle of ANC-related cronies.

I was on the skids 20 years ago, despite an elaborate post-grad education. I worked as a gardener, and later a house painter. Now I've built up a modest but adequate self-employment in publishing services. I work around the clock, and deliver what's needed. For many years I had no motorcar. But so what? Most South Africans don't have one. I've been lucky to have a motorcycle. Now I have a car, and it cost me R14 000, and it is a very good car. Why are we obsessed with silver-grey Porsches and Mercs and four-times-fours, etc?

The sickness of greed and bling runs deep in the veins of this nation.

Each one of us is alone, and the world does not owe any of us anything. Though The State owes its Constitutional dues to the poor (in which duty it fails). Otherwise, there is nothing but hard, grinding, unrelenting work.

So, yes, it's nice that Niehauss has 'fessed up, but how can he expect South Africans to have sympathy for his shocking and childish greed? And the same applies to every other greedy, grease-smeared snout in and around the ANC and insitutions of government.

Bring back sumptuary laws, I say, to save these people from themselves, and ultimately to save the economy as well. (Oh, yes, and to save our souls -- d'ye hear that Rhema Church?)

Citizen Mntu on February 13, 2009, 12:20 pm

No wonder Niehaus defended Zuma with such enthusiasm :-)

Peter Mansfield on February 13, 2009, 12:33 pm

Mr Niehaus,i am very sorry for the turmoil that you are currently going through.We might fail to forgive you but God has already forgiven you as long as you ask him to wipe your sins away.Though it`s a pity that you still have to undergo the right procedures with the court of law for vindication.I understand fraud is not a child`s play.My advise to you and Mr Jacob Zuma is that you will have to go straight and face your convictions.That you do for the sake of South Africans who are willing to vote for a true democracy.I also commend you for having come clean and confess your deeds.That happens to everyone.But for the sake of democracy,suspension is required and you need to be vindicated just like Mr Boesak and Billy Masethla have done and then you will be reinstated to your duties as ANC spokesperson.COPE supports you in your situation and we wish you a quick recovery from your financial turmoil.GOD BLESS YOU!!

Nkateko Kennedy khosa on February 13, 2009, 12:45 pm

I cannot help by commenting on this story and again, the fearlessness of Mail & Guardian, the very true journalistic written word that hath clensed the very democratic soul of the South African democracy, so many times, hath open the truth regarding this man, who has accused so many other white Afrikaners of corrupt political affiliations.

He was never a truthfull politician, businessman, ambassodor. He left all his public positions with a trail of devious self enrichment schemes, mistreated his wife and annoyed all South Africans, who knows his destructive accusing egoistic nature and hath outgrown the hatred past between us.

Your journalist needs to be kissed, she needs to be send for a holiday and she need to be awarded with unknown accolades

Pierre van Niekerk

Pierre van Niekerk on February 13, 2009, 12:47 pm

If there is one lesson that I have learnt forcefully in this last decade, then it is (i) that we all, whether (progressive ANC) or oppressive(former National party supporters)and everyone in the middle have the propensity to be heroic and villianous; (ii) that we have to guard our integrity on a daily basis - its not a given simply because we opposed oppression in dramatic or humble ways; (iii) that we tend to elevate our struggle heroes to iconic status and then cast the first stones when they show they are as human as we are - their lives are simply 'writ large' and they succumb to the seduction of conspicuous consumption and mindless adoration.

Whether we like it or not, we, the people, must stop placing individuals on pedestals - and they in turn must stop acting as if we owe them for the rest of our lives. It is time we demand that this society becomes more equal.

It is the gross inequality coupled with 'scoops' like this that is going to contribute to our downfall. We either stand together or we fall apart. I am more interested in what we, as a society can learn from what we have collectively enabled. Its far too easy to individualise human greed(of course they are accountable) but what do their actions say about us? We have become a greedy, conspicuously consumptive society. When are we going to learn what it is to have 'enough' - and that this country has enough for all of us?

Deeply pained and saddened by our loss of innocence. Whos is going to work for the common good?

Sarah Henkeman on February 13, 2009, 1:01 pm

Parachuted from oblivion into his current role as the chief spin doctor. I always wondered when he defended statements by leaders of the ANC with so much enthuse (counter revolutionary, unfair trial, etc). Only to find he owes all of them and was unable to pay. Sad

Harry Mokabane on February 13, 2009, 1:10 pm

I think this is possibly the first show of integrity on the part of the ANC that we have seen in a while. An ANC member who displays something that is completely foreign to the party: accountability.

Vanstev Wicke on February 13, 2009, 1:23 pm

Too many excuses for Carl, folks, and not enough explanation from the ANC. The fact is, the prisons are filled with criminals who are 'Sorry' - read that as sorry for being caught.

As much as I have sympathy for Niehaus, how many times have we heard him sounding off at others for this and that 'flaw' in their character? I said once before that I was finding it difficult to believe much of what he was saying... now I know why.

He also said something to the effect that his fate in now in the ANC’s hands. But they knew - so why is it only now that his fate rests in their hands. Because it's out in the open?

I have every sympathy for anyone who makes a mistake and then tried to atone for it, but he is a serial recidivist, and his party knew about his past – and still kept him on...

Just as they keep supporting a president-in-waiting who also faces fraud charges and cannot apparently manage his finances - having to borrow money for a car-wash, for example.

Time and again, I have said that ANC should stand for Acutely, Naturally Corrupt.

I am yet to be convinced I am wrong.

Our lawmakers should be EXACTLY that, lawMAKERS. Not lawBREAKERS who defraud parliament - ie, you and me, who take discounts on cars and then lie to us... and so on.

What is most reprehensible is that those many honourable and honest members of the ANC stay silent... for the Party.

It is wrong!

Rod Baker on February 13, 2009, 2:48 pm

Let’s not forget one thing, he did not wake up and say he was going to confess today. He did it because he had no choice the media was starting to ask questions.

Sibs Ma on February 13, 2009, 3:15 pm

So, Niehaus has resigned then?

Jason Whitehead on February 13, 2009, 3:24 pm

bwaaaaahahahaha. these comments are absolutely hilarious. are we that brainwashed?

the anc is increasingly being revealed as an organisation that's rotten to the core. feel sorry for him? start a fund to help him? please. let's go to zim and walk around the streets for a bit, then we can start feeling sorry. i must admit though i do agree that his retention by the anc will surely assist them at the polls. can't wait. the entertainment is almost worth the tax i pay for it.

Dave Williams on February 13, 2009, 3:39 pm

As much as I would like to rejoice at his downfall,I am reminded by my consience I also have a shameful past,I suffered the consequennces of amking wrong decions, I have been forgiven and I am moving forward, a lesson I learnt during those times was that I have been given a second chance and I shouldnt mess it up.
I cannot imagine what Carl is going through, the guilt, the shame and disppointment in himself, I know somehow he will find a way to rise up and hopefully he would've learnt form his mistake. My heart goes out to him.

Thembi Mogala on February 13, 2009, 3:58 pm

This is not surprising to hear from an ANC member of Niehaus stature. Many ANC members in the NEC has behaved corruptly in his/herlife as an MP, Primier and Minister. If one can have a closer look at the NEC of the ruling party, you will realize that many of them have a corruption case to answere with the state. It is therefore not shocking to hear this now from Niehaus. To prove that ANC will do its best to protect its corrupt members is well demonstrated in Niehaus employment. The men admitted before the ANC of his financial situation that would be damaging to the organization, but the ANC proceeded with employing him.I think that the ruling party employed him knowing very well that they will be able to defend him and support him the whole way through, like they have committed to support other ANC members with similar issue. So,Niehaus should not be worried that much, his problems are nothing compared to the problems faced by his seniors.

Joseph Rasethe on February 13, 2009, 4:05 pm

Niehaus did the right thing to resign. I personally hold this cadre of our movement in high esteem. It took courage to admits his wrongs and for that he should be saluted. The comrade fell on hard times and lucky other comrades like Tokyo, Ceril and Saki was there to help him out. It must also be borne in mind that since those episodes Niehaus have tried to rehabilitate himself. He had seen the errors of his extravagant lifestyle.

Freddie Fillis on February 13, 2009, 4:15 pm

I hope the people that Carl had improper dealings with, will also be named and shamed. As for Carl, there is no excuse for his behaviour. However, also give him his dues. Unlike most white people, he actively opposed apartheid, for which he spent years in jail and where cruel guards saw to it that he was raped. Read his book 'Om te Veg vir Hoop' (also translated) for more on his life. Carl, die ergste is nou hopelik verby. Vasbyt

sybrandus adema on February 13, 2009, 4:31 pm

@Mntu - from this white dude - well said my man.

Des Palm on February 13, 2009, 5:21 pm

Is it a record or what, 58 responses all sympathetic to Carl?

Simnikiwe Xawuka on February 13, 2009, 5:41 pm

Morally bankrupt. Shades of Hansie?

Chris Louw on February 13, 2009, 5:50 pm

Carl, happily, hasn't blamed his greed on "dark forces hiding in our judicial system" seems almost out of place; somebody actually admitting to wrongdoing...

jason cope on February 13, 2009, 5:55 pm

Two thinga,

1. It now ridicules the ANC and DA insistence, that the public has no right to know anything about the private lives of political leaders.
2. How come the ANC has now accepted the Niehaus resignation when, as stated by him, he had already told them of his fraudulent activity when he was interviewed for the job of ANC spokesperson? The ANC disgustingly, only apparently acts when caught out. What a disgraceful example to our young people. They have easily overtaken the previous corrupt apartheid regime, for sleaze.

Frank Hartry on February 13, 2009, 6:17 pm

Tom Sharpe wouldn't have used this story- it's over the top for satire.
I guess public opinion and voter sentiment is like turning around an ocean liner- but the odd iceberg helps.

Dave Tootill on February 13, 2009, 6:30 pm

Delusions of grandeur and greed, greed, greed.

Chandos Hoffmann on February 13, 2009, 7:12 pm

This is a blow to ANC as it tarnishes its image both to the country and to the world.Though ANC leadership were very quick to remove him from communications department,but opposition parties will use the opportunity to garner support out of this unfortunate circumstance.The party needs to counsel its members and educate them on their roles as public servants.But it is good for the party to take decisive action.ANC must lead by example from combating corruption by its members and the public at large

Thembani Mnconywa on February 13, 2009, 7:26 pm

Another victory for the Mail & Guardian.

Another of these unprincipled politicians bites the dust.

And it's so sad to read how many stupid people still support this twit.

Justin on February 13, 2009, 7:35 pm

Carl, be strong, you have done something very few people have the strength for and that is confessing your sins. "Let those who have not sinned throw the first stone", in the words of our Lord, to all above who cast judgement on Carl. Get better and put this behind you forever Carl.

Pale Rider on February 13, 2009, 10:45 pm

Ah those krokodil trane ! Tugs at my heartstrings to see the Botha- glaring , admonishing, sneering-tongued haranguer weep... that he was caught out. Could happen to anyone who's had his hand in the cookie jar, once the tide goes out, to mix a metaphor or two.
The amount of charity being displayed is admirable. Hope it's extended to people stealing to keep their families alive as well. I'm sure it will be.

Terry E on February 13, 2009, 11:22 pm

Has Niehaus been arrested yet? What's taking so long, he's confessed, he could've been in jail by the weekend.

Jason Whitehead on February 14, 2009, 12:51 am

Ken Holland - I think your comments about idiots who have multiple wives in the 21st century are rather unfortunate. Polygamy is recognised in the constitution of South Africa and is part of Black people's culture. Anyway, the person which I think you are referring to had multiple wives in the 70's already which was in the 20th centur and all the women that he is involved with are in those relationahips voluntarily and are free to walk away anytime they wish to do so.

Mfundo Molefe on February 14, 2009, 3:39 am

Tearfully sorry, my foot! Fraud is a crime. I know of someone who is accused of this very crime and is currently being fried by the public and the media. Why the double standards? Niehouws conned his friends, abused public resources and fraudulently forged signatures to secure funds in order to sustain his lavish lifestyle; and he wants to apportion blame onto his wife as well?

There are evidently people who do not come out of this sorry saga clean either.

Why don't we open the gates and invite all those accused of fraud to open-up, repent and say sorry, so we can promptly empathize with and forgive them. I do not see why Niewhouse could get any favourable treatment than any equivalent common criminal.

Kaycee Potong on February 14, 2009, 8:41 am

What you sow, you reap, my friend. It is now your season to harvest what you have sown in the past.

Derek Nykamp on February 14, 2009, 12:30 pm

To have the audacity to say “I made a mistake.” You didn’t make a mistake, Carl, you just got caught. And don’t blame it on Linda’s insatiable appetite for things: she is capable in her own right to earn sufficient to buy the things she wants. And face it, the Amsterdam house story makes it seem as if you are not really to blame ... but making an offer on a property that you know you cannot afford is completely out of integrity to start with. Besides, that was not the first time. I am sure you need help, but it is help with straightening your integrity, nothing else. You will heal your life the moment you accept responsibility for it. — Tommy Muller

Tommy Muller on February 14, 2009, 2:48 pm

I think the ANC should change their election slogan: Hop onto the gravy train, it's a lovely ride!

And then Carl Niehaus has the audacity to say things like poverty alleviation in South Africa is a challenge in our 15 year young democracy, while he's squandering hard working tax payers money.

More of the same. Stop voting for the ANC people. Is there anyone left in that corrupt institution who isn't under indictment.

Only Breyten Breytenbach has the balls to tell it like it is in his "open letter" to Madiba. Breytenbach could have joined the gravy train, but he didn't. He stayed a true activist, fighting for the weak and vulnerable. Looks like all these "anti-apartheid activists" always had their eye on the price, instead of the cause they "claimed" they fighting for.

Shame on all of you. This could have been such a success story. You are a disgrace to this country, and you have betrayed all South Africans, you and your other corrupt "comrades".

Will we ever members in government with moral compasses facing North?

Erna Beetge on February 14, 2009, 6:24 pm

Mr Niehaus, I am so utterly disappointed in you.... As an afrikaans speaking, white male I thought that I could look up to you as a role model for the way our population group could reverse the wrongs of our forefathers. You are just another Fat Cat!The only reason that you where tearful during your admission was because you were caught. If you honestly realised that you had done wrong you would have come out with the truth years ago and tried to correct the wrong. Your idea of Ubuntu (and its seems some of your cadres) is to get filthy rich at the expense of the poor and tax payers. (You could have started quite a feeding program in the townships with R700000, a Porsche and a Merc!)Mr Niehaus, how about some hands on community service to help you get rid of all this guilt you are stuck with.

Ranger Poe on February 14, 2009, 9:36 pm

The sad thing about all of this is that I really thought that Carl really had the interests of the "people" at heart.Sis on you Carl!!

Maybe it is a good thing that the "people" do not get to see the kind of lives that their "leaders" (those who purport to live only to bring about equality ...mmm what is that?) live (Carl's Porche, Merc and holidays etc)while they struggle. Quite honestly they do not even know that they are being financially raped by their leaders.

On the other hand maybe they should know. Maybe then they can make an informed decision when voting in April and vote for moral integrity for a change.

Rolf Randall on February 15, 2009, 1:19 pm

"What a fragile web it is we weave, when at first we stoop to deceive."

Thabo Mbeki, the Brothers Pahad, the Brothers Shaik, Jacob Zuma, Baleka Mbete, Selebi, Mantashe, the "anti-Pikoli" committee, and Uncle Tom Cobbly and all ... the roll of dishonour in South African public life is seemingly endless.

Ah, yes, we have the Land Bank Affair, the Home Affairs shambles, SA's dishonourable behaviour at the UN, our support for Mugabe and Zanu-PF, failure or refusal to pay social grants, meltdown of our public medical system, genocide by Mbeki and Manto through their AIDS denialism, police corruption and brutality. Etc, etc.

No sympathy or condonation should ever be shown to any individual or entity in public office that is found to be criminal, corrupt, incompetent, or even "just sort of dishonest" in any form. And, when there's a rare element of confession, this does not make the crime against the public of South Africa go away. ANC (and SA), you had better grow up very, very quickly.

Citizen Mntu on February 16, 2009, 1:49 pm

I found out about the ANC corruption, nepotism and gangsterism some 30 years ago as I was 'within the bosom of the beasts' (as an insider), first as student-activist in Sweden and Britain, then as a researcher with privileged information and opportunities to see these crooks close-up: in Africa, Lusaka and Luanda, although I was prevented from doing research for my Ph.D. by the late Ruth First - as she was in change of a programme to study migrant labour in Mozambique at Maputo University - the reason?

I am from Cape Town, from a family of famous "ultra-leftists" and thus 'counter-revolutionaries' and not a member of the SACP; so in 1978 I stayed in Lusaka for a month and saw for myself the two-tier system of 'respectable middle class' homes provided for the ANC/SACP elite or namenklatura and saw the hovels and slums that the "comrades" from MK and the rank-and-file had to suffer in! No wonder 90% of the MK troops revolted in 1984-86 and this rebellion was put down in blood by Slovo, Mbeki and all the NEC members!

And so the corruption, the culture of non-accountability and the lies and hypocracy started in EXILE dear friends NOT when they were duped by the 'dirty money' of Brett Kebble and the Ruperts etc. DIG into the archives and the earlier articles by Paul Trewhela on this website for further information.

A LUTTA CONTINUA!

Selim Gool on February 16, 2009, 2:40 pm

How has it come about that our liberators will throw a poor man into jail for stealing food for his kids, but when a rich man steals big money to buy luxuries he'll get away with it?
The ANC will say "We'll catch these bastards" when speaking about crime committed by the poor; Yet they'll say "We will help rehabilitate him" when it's one of the inner cabal!

Where is the Freedom Charter? Forgotten and covered in dust.
Only spoken about in the last six months (suddenly!) because a new party mentioned it. Hayibo, ANC!! Sies!

pete ess on February 16, 2009, 7:57 pm

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