Andrew Louw. File picture
FORMER DA provincial leader Andrew Louw has resigned from the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature to pursue business interests.
Louw, in reply to social media posts, stated that he would remain a DA member and had no interest in joining ActionSA, as was widely rumoured.
He also denied on Facebook that any charges of maladministration were laid against him.
“Please get your facts right. It seems like it is unbecoming for a black person to leave an organisation without a dark cloud. Remember that your information is very close to defamation and spreading rumours about any person that is inaccurate can be dangerous.”
DA chairperson of the federal council Helen Zille also rubbished any suggestions on social media that Louw would be leaving the party.
Zille indicated that she was only aware that Louw wished to experience a “change of scenery”.
“He informed us that he will be going into business and I take his word at face value. I am not aware of any intentions of him to join any other political party.”
ActionSA national spokesperson Lerato Ngobeni was also not aware of Louw having any intentions to join the party.
“Should it ever be then we will communicate in due course.”
DA provincial leader Harold McGluwa noted that “falsehoods were being spread” in the media surrounding the circumstances of Louw’s departure from the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature as of March 31.
“We condemn this poor quality journalism and the failure of certain media outlets to contact the party to get the facts.
“It was also confirmed by our federal leadership that this statement is unfounded and that Louw is not going to any party as they proclaim.
“A seasoned politician and a disciplined legislator, Louw served actively in the legislature for thirteen years, 12 of which were in the capacity of leader of the official opposition.”
McGluwa added that the party appreciated the “immense contributions” that Louw had made to hold government accountable and improve the lives of residents in the Northern Cape.
“We wish to thank Louw for his many years of service in the legislature. Louw will be missed but will still remain a paid-up member of the DA.
“The DA bids Louw farewell and wishes him well as he prepares to enter the next chapter in his life.”