south africa: ANC axe over EC

Eastern Cape Premier Makhenkesi Stofile has apparently been instructed by President Thabo Mbeki to fire three MECs -- Education MEC Stone Sizani, Roads and Public Works MEC Phumulo Masualle and Social Development MEC Ncumisa Kondlo. The province is awash with rumours as to why Mbeki had demanded the action, with one suggestion being that they are part of a "leftist" clique and that their removal is part of a purge.