The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature notes with concern a motion from the Democratic Alliance (DA), presented by MPL, Dr Imran Keeka, on 4 August 2022.
The DA motion mentions their “recognition for the need for peace and lasting negotiated settlements for the people of Kashmir”, as well as “To call upon the nation states in the region to end hostilities”.
The IFP is in full support of peace, reconciliation, and an end to hostilities, as well being in support of a negotiated settlement. However, a provincial legislature is not the platform for such discussions, which appear to be an attempt to meddle in international issues.
In addition, these types of remarks run the risk of souring relations between South Africa and the nation states in question.
Our focus here should instead be on working for the same amongst the people of our own province. It is not the platform for telling another country how to conduct its affairs, and smacks of cheap politicking on the part of the DA. Further, is this the DA’s official policy position, or merely that of their Member?
Surely, international bodies, such as the United Nations, are better positioned for such discussions and negotiations. The issue of Kashmir is a matter for the two nations concerned, and Article 370 has concluded on the issues being raised. Further, the Instrument of Accession was signed on 26 October 1947, in which Jammu and Kashmir joined the Dominion of India, and that date became a public holiday in the region in 2020.
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Contact
Hon. Les Govender, MPL
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson for Social Development
083 974 4894