The Independent Democrats are not surprised by the NNP's decision to join the ANC - this is the logical outcome of deal brokered by the leadership of the NNP for themselves at the expense of their members.

"THe excuse by the NNP to justify their merger with the ANC that the debate about the future of South Africa must take place inside the ANC is absolutely misplaced; we do not need to be swallowed by the ANC in order to debate the future of our country. This debate must include all SOuth Africans including those who are outside the ANC," said Patricia de Lille, Leader of the Independent Democrats.

Issued by: Thulani Sithole, Media Officer, 084 233 3811