 They will present a petition expressing horror at the recent xenophobic violence in which more than 60 foreigners were killed and thousands chased out of South Africa.
A copy of the petition was handed to Archbishop Desmond Tutu at St Martin-in-the-Fields church on June 9. Archbishop Tutu described the situation in Zimbabwe as a nightmare and asked forgiveness on behalf of the people of South Africa for the violence against foreigners.
The petition reads: A Petition to Thabo Mbeki: Following the recent attacks on Zimbabweans and other foreign nationals in South Africa we, the undersigned, call on President Mbeki to take action to ensure the safety of these endangered people and bring the perpetrators to justice. We urge President Mbeki to end his support of (former) President Mugabe, allowing a resolution of the Zimbabwe crisis and the return home of exiled Zimbabweans. Zimbabwean blood is at your door. Â
The petition was signed by people passing by the Zimbabwe Vigil on June 7 and those attending the St Martin-in-the-Fields church gathering attended by Tutu.
 The text of the letter reads: We have been horrified by the recent xenophobic attacks on Zimbabweans and other foreigners in South Africa and enclose a petition. The situation can only get worse if Zanu (PF) is allowed to cling to power. We believe there is a crisis in Zimbabwe and that you can help resolve it. We pray to God you will rise to this challenge.
Post published in: News