ANC holds hands with all peace-loving South Africans in calling for an end to violence in Gaza
8 February 2024
The African National Congress (ANC) stands resolute in solidarity with the Palestinian people, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to their just struggle for freedom, self-determination, and dignity. In line with its historic mission to combat oppression and injustice, the ANC views the Palestinian cause as central to the broader struggle for human rights and global justice.
The recent meeting between the ANC's 1st Deputy Secretary-General, Comrade Nomvula Mokonyane with the Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa is the first in a series of meetings set to take place with a number of sectoral, religious, and civil society organisations. This is one of many initiatives undertaken by the ANC to stand firmly with the people of Palestine. This meeting served a dual purpose in that it sought to once again affirm the ANC's commitment to the Palestinian people and those who support their cause - and their right to have their voice heard in line with our constitutional order and mobilising all sectors of society behind the rallying call for peace.
Given the global context where the silencing of pro-Palestinian activists has become a norm, the ANC has noted with concern similar characteristics and behaviour here at home. In Cape Town recently, communities have been left bereft by the City of Cape Town's attempt to remove art and graffiti displaying support for the Palestinian cause.
Accordingly, it is in this light that the ANC recognises the need to join hands with all those who oppose violence, landlessness and displacement of Palestinian people who daily endure callous killings, shelling and starvation. We know too well the struggle and suffering of the people of Palestine and have taken a firm and principled decision to oppose a system that mirrors Apartheid.
The ANC's history of its commitment to the Palestinian struggle is beyond doubt. The ANC has long been an ally to Palestine. Since the 1950's, the ANC has enjoyed strong ties with the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO). This relationship was informed by the commonalities between the struggle for the liberation of South Africa and that of the people of Palestine. Former President Mandela, just two weeks shy of his release from prison in 1990, met with former PLO leader Yasser Arafat. That historic moment signalled to the rest of the world where the ANC stood on the matter.
The ANC's position on the matter of Palestine is informed by our unequivocal insistence of the recognition of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The ANC has always condemned the abhorrent actions of the Israeli government towards Palestinians and continue to articulate its unstinting support for the people of Palestinian in their fight against Israeli aggression.
In fulfilling their genocidal promise, the words of Netanyahu, "No one can stop us not even the Hague", are eerily matched by the systematic annihilation of Palestinians. Since the ruling of the ICJ, the death toll has increases to over 27 000 deaths, mostly women and children.
The ANC reiterates its call for all parties to implement the provisional measures of the court. This requires an immediate cease fire, the release of hostages held in Gaza, and a concerted effort that ensures that humanitarian aid is allowed into the Gaza Strip.
Consistent with the agenda we have set in our January 8 Statement, the ANC commits itself to building a better Africa and just, equitable and humane world.
Issued by Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, National Spokesperson, ANC, 8 February 2024
