ACDP MP & Whip, Cheryllyn Dudley will be part of a parliamentary delegation to Alexandra and other areas experiencing shocking violent attacks against foreign nationals.Â
The delegation will visit affected areas to express solidarity, give support to local leadership and organizations; receive information as to the cause of the flare-ups and listen to issues raised by communities while calling for calm and a cessation of violence.
Xenophobia, which is largely based on unfounded fears and a tendency for people to stereotype foreigners as the cause of social and economic problems makes communities vulnerable to criminal elements who clearly take advantage of an atmosphere of suspicion and a dislike of foreigners.
Of course very real social and economic pressures exist and must be addressed however increased incidence of xenophobia at this time are seen by some as being artificially stimulated by outside influences as retribution in Zimbabwe reaches across the boarder.Â
The ACDP acknowledges President Mbeki’s response in condemning the violence and in calling for an investigation. We call on the President to act decisively especially if National Intelligence confirms outside interference.
The delegation will interact with many stakeholders including SAPS, NGO’s, churches, health services and Home Affairs who have played and will play critical roles in circumstances where violence flares. It is necessary for parliament to assess and ensure adequate policing with regard to investigations and arrests of perpetrators as well as preventing subsequent eruptions of violence.
It is also imperative that relief for victims of violence, both foreign and South African, is offered by government departments at all levels. The ACDP commends those individuals and organizations on the ground who are courageously assisting the victims of violence.
Post published in: News