ANC STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF SOUTH AFRICAN SOLDIERS IN CAR

The African National Congress is saddened by the killing of 13 South African soldiers, the missing of one and the injury of 27 others during contact operation with the rebels in the Central African Republic at the end of last week. 

Our servicemen had been part of the contingency of the army that had gone to CAR to assist in rebuilding the military and infrastructure of that country and to serve as peace keeping force contingency. This deployment was consistent with our policy of building fraternal relations with countries of the continent and to promote our foreign policy as espoused in the Freedom Charter.

To us these soldiers were true sons of the continent who were willing to give up their lives in the interest of ensuring peace in the continent. Their selfless commitment has left an indelible mark in the relations between South Africa and the Central African Republic.

We call on the African Union and all other world bodies to be resolute in rejecting the forceful removal of the government of the Central African Republic.

The ANC salutes our fallen soldiers as heroes for their unflinching commitment to serve the country. We bow our heads as a sign of honor they deserve.  We convey condolences to their families and their loved ones. We wish those injured a speedy recovery.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC National Spokesperson, March 25 2013

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