Madame Speaker, 

Following high-level discussions between the ANC and the IFP in Gauteng yesterday, both parties agreed that the xenophobic violence that is currently sweeping through the province, is prominently driven by criminal elements and not just driven by xenophobia.  

We want to make it clear that the leadership of BOTH parties at this meeting called on our supporters to resist from engaging in ANY acts of violence. 

We have warned our members that should they be found to be involved in any violation of human rights or any perpetration of xenophobia and violence against foreigners, the IFP will take stringent disciplinary steps against them. We also call for the full might of the law to take its course without fear or favour. 

At the meeting we also urged the leadership structures of BOTH parties, down to the lowest branch levels, to address their supporters as a matter of urgency, so that we can use both parties to play a leading role in STOPPING this senseless violence. 

Furthermore, the IFP would like to urge NGOs and local government to assist those who have been affected by the violence by providing humanitarian assistance to the displaced. 

In conclusion, we are calling on the SAPS from its top leadership down to constable level to do everything in its power to protect the lives of these innocent victims. We also urge the police to use intelligence to get to the root causes of the problem. We must STOP the violence and the perpetrators must be brought to book NOW! 

Thank you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Mr Velaphi Ndlovu MP: 083 625 0803