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28 July 2008

At last, I have been requested by the African National Congress National Executive Committee to resign as Premier. I have tendered my resignation with effect from 31 July 2008.

My resignation has not been well handled by either the press or the National Executive Committee (NEC). The Daily Dispatch has, in the past two weeks, had a field day with information they have received from faceless and nameless persons. Information was leaked to the press with no attempt made to call and/or inform me.

In addition to this, there have been incessant calls for my resignation made by the alliance partners. No opportunity was, or has been afforded to me to state my case as demanded by the laws of natural justice.

Nonetheless, as a loyal and trusted member of the ANC, I have agreed to resign in the spirit of our forefathers who have so dearly upheld the pillars of truth, honesty and integrity.

I leave this position with a grateful heart, no regrets, no bitterness and full of forgiveness for those who have vilified me.

Thank you to the ANC for the opportunity they have afforded me in serving the Eastern Cape for close to 15 years. Thank you too to President Mbeki for the trust he placed in me by appointing me as Premier of the Eastern Cape in 2004.

Throughout the past 15 years, I never once doubted that I was being given a tremendous opportunity. This despite being mindful of the fact that I was operating in an environment of sharks and hyena's, pollution and infestation.
I firmly believe that I have fought a good battle - trying hard to listen and address the needs of the poorest-of-the-poor.

I have made a lot of enemies by saying no to corruption and no to laziness. I have not robbed my people, I have not stolen from their resources and I have served them with honesty, integrity and humility.

The plight of the poor, rural women, men and children will always be with me throughout my life. They are my driving force and I shall not abandon them. Like any women, and a mother of the province, I will continue fighting for the rights of women and the poorest-of-the-poor. That is why I will soon be calling on business people and other stakeholders to support my new foundation dedicated to helping those less fortunate than I and my family. A foundation aimed at helping the poorest-of-the-poor.

I always remember those persons who have played an important part in my life – especially the strong, passionate and wise women who have left an indelible mark.

Thanks to my 84 year old mother, MaMohlakoane, and the many other veterans who have helped me to be a good cadre in serving our people. A special word of thanks to MaShope, MaSisulu, MaWinnie, Mamofokeng Mbeki, MaSperi, MaRuth Mompati, MaNjobe, Aunt Rashid, Aunt Sophie de Bruin, MaBertha, MaMosia and many others, thank you for your support.

Thanks to all the religious leaders and the faith-based organisations for their continued support and prayer during this difficult time. Lastly to my children, Tumi Mandi and Zola, my nieces and nephews – Ziyanda, Zuki and Roro – Thank you for your love, understanding and support.

For my dear husband – Miniyakhe – you have been, and continue to be, a tower OF strength, a pillar of wisdom and a shoulder to lean on. Thank you for your unwavering love and support.

Mrs Nosimo Balindleala
Outgoing Premier of the Eastern Cape

Media queries:
Mr Phaphama Mfenyana
Cell: 082 773 0265

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
28 July 2008
Source: Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.ecprov.gov.za/)