Pictures of statues erected on a private property in Embalenhle outside Secunda have been circulating on social media.
This is after a social media user posted the pictures with a caption that suggests that they spent R15 million on them in the province. This sparked a debate with some claiming that the Mpumalanga Provincial Government was responsible.
READ | Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards spectacle
The Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation (DCSR) dismissed the claims and responded in a statement clarifying the false information. Spokesperson for the department, Sibongile Nkosi said they are disappointed by the post. “This false information appalled us. Neither the Department nor the Provincial Government has ever commissioned such statues. We reject any information which suggests spending money on such statues,” Nkosi explained.
Nkosi further said circulation of false information borders not only on libel act, but undermines the image of the provincial government. “DCSR is a custodian of Arts and Heritage in the Province. Therefore, commissioning statues are communicated with all affected stakeholders, through established government communication protocols.”
READ MORE | Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience continues
“That information of this nature was never communicated. This simply means our provincial government has nothing to do with the statues. The authors must desist from linking the government or should be prepared to face the consequences.”
The owner of the property known as Kamaleleza where the statues are erected also clarified the rumours. He emphasised the statues represent his family members and not political figures.
WATCH VIDEO:
