The African National Congress (ANC) in the Ilembe region has refuted claims they are distributing food parcels and prioritising only their members amid the pandemic.

The allegations were vehemently denied by Public Works and Human Settlements MEC Peggy Nkanyeni when she visited Shaka’s Head township during the official mass screening and testing launch last Thursday.

“What happened in this area is that the councillor did a fundraiser and also received some donated food and only 180 food parcels were made available. So it was difficult for everyone to receive a parcel. The poorest who given first preference,” said Nkanyeni.

KZN ANC spokesperson Ricardo Mthembu told the Courier that all political parties were toeing the line during this crisis and it was dangerous for people to try and politicise the pandemic and mislead the public.

“Our people are hungry and no one has the right to abuse this crisis to gain political mileage,” said Mthembu.

With a population of almost 10 000 people in Shaka’s Head, thousands are already living hand to mouth and many will face extreme hunger.

Mthembu said aid was coming from various NGO’s and government structures and politics must not factor into it.

“This is a national crisis and people need reassurance, stability and leadership as we try to navigate our way through this. There is no room for politics right now,” he said.

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