South Africa--Quotes in the news

Lip service (News 24, South Africa):

'Does President Mbeki really need five valets to attend to his wardrobe?' - Democratic Alliance chief election spokesperson Douglas Gibson in a statement in reaction to advertisements for 63 new household staff for Mbeki, including five new valets; 13 new housekeeping managers, supervisors and assistants; three drivers; and 11 new catering managers, chefs, and kitchen assistants.

'By contrast, His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, has only two butlers, one valet, five housekeepers and managers, three chefs, and two chauffeurs in his total staff complement.' - Gibson.

'While the Democratic Alliance, without responsibility for governance, seeks votes above all else, the President and government must continue to function at all times.' - The African National Congress, on the sought staff. The ANC said the posts had been budgeted for and did not represent new spending by the government.