May 14, 1997 DFL confronts the KwaZulu-Natal DFL has decided to confront the KwaZulu-Natal, MEC regarding a clause in a recent abortion circular. The circular, dated 24 February 1997, advises medical personnel, in the case of a late term abortion (after 12 weeks pregnancy) that: “In cases where the gestation is further advanced and an infant is born who gasps for breath, it is advised that the fetus does not receive any resuscitation measures.” In the light of the fact that all babies gasp for breath when born, we are convinced that by doing this the directive is encouraging an unlawful act and that the directive does not fall within the powers given to him in respect of the abortion legislation. We consider this to be plain infanticide. It remains a crime, inhuman and immoral to dump a baby and leave him/her to die. Should the MEC for Health not yield and withdraw the directive, Doctors for Life intends to prosecute him with the assistance of the Christian Lawyers Association. DFL has also writ- ten a letter to the national Minister of Health, Dr Nkosazana Zuma requesting confirmation in writing that there will be no discrimination against doctors in government posts or applying for a government post, who would refuse to be involved in abortions. |
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