It pains me immensely to have to stand before this august House to refute what is obviously an evil Machiavellian propaganda to apportion the blame on the IFP, at the same time pledge my Party's sympathies for those affected by this senseless violence. There are conflicting versions regarding the causes and implications of this incidents.

For this reason the IFP urges the President and government to immediately institute an independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the real factors underlying this violence and other measure will simply be superficial.

Just after xenophobia had reared its monstrous head in Attredgeville the IFP issued a statement appealing to political leaders of all the political parties including Religious leaders in South Africa to break the silence and condemn xenophobia which has now become rampant in our country.

We lamented the horrors of seeing men, women and children hunted down like wild animals, their property destroyed simply for taking refuge in our country. Yes those foreigners who are seen to be involved in criminal activities should be reported to the law enforcement agencies and let the law of the land take its course. It is equally criminal for local residents to take the law in their hands, resulting in wanton theft, destruction and killings that we are now seeing. Criminal elements will definitely lurch on this situation of semi-anarchy to fulfil their evil intentions, and the police ought to firm a cubing lawlessness.

Regrettably, this mayhem could be indicative of the reaction from a people who after 14 years of liberation still suffer the severe psychological, social and economic "unfreedoms" and deprivation. Warning us all that the legacy of colonialism and apartheid added to the illusive freedom and nation building can be a lethal combination. It is in fact the recipe for a protracted social conflict.

Lastly, the IFP commends government ministers, all political parties, NGOs, the law enforcement agencies, local government officials and all members of our society who are co-operating in these conflict areas to bring tolerance, peace and normal life for all.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Mr Ben Skosana MP: 082 887 2779