Media release by Bench Marks Foundation regarding IvanPlats

JOHANNESBURG - April 22, 2016 - PRLog -- In our earlier media release, calling for protection of human rights defenders in the mining areas, we indicated that a Mr Holly Maponya, (whom we in error referred to as Mokopane) was the victim of an attempted assassination.

The company IvanPlats, has been in contact with us, pointing out that they have "absolutely no knowledge about the circumstances of the alleged incident".

We read this to mean that they do not approve of it and condemn it and accordingly, we call on them to also approach the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of that dastardly deed are brought to justice.

The context behind the incident that occurred with Mr Maponya:

The events occurring this week took place after a number of failed consultations were organised by consultants, including one "Digby Wells Environmental" on behalf of IvanPlats, on Sunday 17 April 2016. Mr Holly Maponya was vocally opposed to the manner in which these consultations were taking place and as a result, a few of the consultations did not proceed.

On Monday 18 April 2016, unknown assailants shot and wounded Mr Maponya, who is lucky to be alive today.

We believe IvanPlats has a moral and constitutional obligation to ensure free and open discussions take place and that they negotiate with the respected community representatives.

We do not in any way, suggest that the company was involved in the incidents surrounding the attempted assassination of Mr Maponya. Any insinuation in earlier media releases is regretted and the Bench Marks Foundation apologizes for that.

For more information on the Bench Marks Foundation, go to www.bench-marks.org.za.