The ANC Youth League has complained that businesswoman Wendy Luhabe intends using a luncheon at Absa to campaign for her husband's new political movement.

League spokesperson Floyd Shivambu said on Wednesday they had been informed that she was planning to do this after saying she would do everything she could to lobby support for the movement, which intends launching as a political party in December.

"We are aware that that is the reality," said Shivambu.

They would also ask the trade and industry ministry to make sure she was not abusing her position as chairperson of the Industrial Development Corporation to divert funds to the movement.

"We are aware that Wendy Luhabe, the main funder of the political rebel group, led by her husband Mbhazima Shilowa and Patrick Lekota, is at the forefront of using Absa platforms to mobilise and galvanise support for the rebel group," a league statement said on Tuesday.

"The Chairperson of Absa, Gill Marcus is co-hosting a bogus special luncheon at Absa, which will be utilised to mobilise for the rebel political group.

Allegations "wholly unfounded"

"Absa should... come out very clear on its relations and engagement with political formations in South Africa, so that we can have a thorough understanding on what Absa really represents."

A spokesperson for the movement was not immediately available to comment, but Absa reportedly said that the allegations were "wholly unfounded".

It said it set aside R2.5-million to contribute to registered political parties every year which have won at least three seats in Parliament after a general election.

The banking group said there was no evidence that the luncheon would be used for political ends.

Sapa