Collen Sedibe, head of organising campaigns of EFF in Mpumalanga writes:

Good day sir, EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) Mpumalanga would like to register its disappointment by Mr Gwede Mantashe, ANC SG’s statement published in Mpumalanga News dated January 9 calling us mad people.

We must put it on record that we are highly disturbed and disappointed to read such provocative utterances from a senior member of the ruling party who should be leading by example that political tolerance in South Africa should always be a binding principle. His statement does not only undermine the right of individuals to establish or join politcal parties of their choice, but also serve as an incitement to members of his organisation to continue provoking EFF members and disturbing its activities. We note it with the contempt it deserves and we will, as EFF, make sure that we defend ourselves and our organisation at all cost and in any form from any harassment, attack or provocation that will prevail from now onwards as a result of Mantashe’s call to undermine us.

However, his apology in this regard will be highly appreciated.