IFP PRESS STATEMENT BY: 
MR VELAPHI NDLOVU MP
IFP SAFETY AND SECURITY SPOKESPERSON

1st July 2008

The Inkatha Freedom Party believes that Cosatu's decision that there is no need for general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, to apologise for his 'shoot to kill' comments, is extremely reckless and disappointing, said Mr Velaphi Ndlovu MP, the IFP's Safety and Security Spokesperson. 

Mr Ndlovu commented: "The crime stats released yesterday, once again confirmed that we are living in a extremely violent society. It is therefore reckless when leaders like Mr Malema and Mr Vavi start making 'shoot to kill' comments, in whatever context. Dying for a revolution is heroic, but killing for a cause is murder, they should understand the difference and apologise. 

"Furthermore, it seems that there is clearly no mood within the ANCYL and Cosatu to work towards a better South Africa for all - instead, taking-up arms and killing seems like the most popular option they are preaching to their followers. Their statements amount to nothing more than inciting violence and one would have hoped that Cosatu would have shown some leadership on this issue. 

"The recent xenophobia killings have shown us all just how swiftly violence can engulf our country. The SAHRC have drawn a line in the sand and Mr Malema, Mr Vavi and Cosatu have stepped over it. But instead of showing remorse and acting as leaders, they have gone the different route in defiance. 

In conclusion Mr Ndlovu said: "We hope that the SAHRC acts decisively and deals with these matters swiftly. We can ill afford to have leaders in our country that behave like the Robert Mugabes of this world."