IFP URGES CALM IN TROUBLED MELMOTH

January 12, 2007

The IFP calls for calm in the Nkwaleni area near Melmoth where Kenneth Lionel Eva, a local farm manager, was clubbed to death by a mob in an apparent land dispute on Tuesday. There had been reports of unhappiness and incidents on his farm involving workers and the farm management.

"The IFP’s position is clear: we condemn violence and brutality on principle. We extend our condolences to the victim’s family and friends. At the same time, we urge everyone involved in the dispute to stay calm and let the authorities carry out their investigation of the incident unhindered," said IFP provincial spokesperson Blessed Gwala.

The IFP believes that similar disputes can only be resolved by dialogue. "We urge the local farmers and residents to put their trust into the local authorities, namely the SAPS and the Mthonjaneni and Umlalazi councils. We also urge these authorities to be co-operative and expedite their investigation." said Gwala.

The IFP fears that taking the law into one’s own hands is the worst option in a volatile situation. "Further violence can only produce more violence. This is how things went wrong for farmers and residents in Zimbabwe. Let the catastrophic situation in Zimbabwe be a cautionary tale to everyone in Melmoth at this difficult time." said Gwala.

Contact: Blessed Gwala, 078 690 5777
Date: 12 January 2007