THE ANC has dismissed as fake media reports suggesting the party’s Deputy Secretary General Jessie Duarte has passed away.
ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe on Sunday described the media reports as “inhumane”, “barbaric” and “hurtful” to the Duarte, her family and the broader liberation movement.
“The ANC categorically dismisses these nonsensical claims by some through fake news messages social and mainstream media platforms,” said Mabe.
“The DSG has been ill for some time and is now well on the road to full recovery. The ANC is encouraged by the DSG, comrade Duarte’s display of strength on a daily basis and look forward to her imminent return to office.”
“We are appreciative of the continued support that the family is giving to the DSG. We further commend our national officials, members of the national executive committee and all those who took their time to visit the DSG in person and many others who continue to convey well wishes.
“The outpouring messages of support and prayers have contributed immensely to the DSG’s road to recovery. We also convey our words of gratitude to the medical team for their professional service.”
On Sunday, Duarte also sent out a WhatsApp voice note confirming she is still alive.
“I am still alive and getting stronger by the day. Of course, it is uphill, it is cancer and it has its own challenges but I am fighting very hard to regain my health,” said Duarte.
Duarte has been on sick leave since November last year after she was hospitalised with gastrointestinal complications.
She had been managing the secretary general’s office after the suspension of ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule in May 2021.
In January, the ANC’s national working committee (NWC) requested the party’s treasurer-general, Paul Mashatile, to assist Duarte in the execution of duties of the secretary general’s office.
INSIDE POLITICS
