Don't 'politicise' Khwezi's death, urges ANCWL

The ANC Women’s League has sent its condolences to the family of the late Fezeka Kuzwayo‚ or Khwezi as she was more commonly known in the media.

The league said it had learnt with great sadness of Kuzwayo’s death on Saturday.

Khwezi made headlines after she accused President Jacob Zuma of raping her ten years ago‚ but he was acquitted of the charge in May 2006.

The ANCWL said in a statement:" As the ANCWL we send our deepest condolences to the family and loved one's of Fezeka. The ANCWL has received numerous enquiries concerning the passing of Fezeka.

"First and foremost a life has been lost and as an organisation we respect the request by the family to mourn their loved privately.

"The ANCWL humbly requests the media to refrain from politicising the matter and handle it with the sensitivity it deserves.

"As Africans we must respect the family in mourning. We further urge South Africans at large to respect the soul of the deceased and allow her to rest in peace with no undue speculations."

The league condemned the media for "hounding our leadership for comments on the matter".

"The secretary general of the ANCWL‚ Meokgo Matuba‚ has responded to questions imposed on her by the media. However‚ the ANCWL requests not to be dragged into these discussions. Let's all allow the family to mourn privately‚" said league spokeswoman Toko Xasa.