COSATU Statement on xenophobic attacks
10 April 2015
The Congress of South African Trade Unions take this opportunity to once again condemn the unacceptable xenophobic attacks against non-nationals, particularly directed to fellow Africans, working class in particular.
It calls for all of us to build and participate in a real and sustained national movement against such heinous crimes in order to rebuild the dignity and respect for each other, fully cognisant of the pressing conditions that result in the levels of displacement, migration and deplorable conditions fellow Africans find themselves in throughout the continent.
We call on African leaders to do more against the conditions that force working people to find themselves set against each other, resulting in massive loss of lives, including the conditions that force people into permanent social and political destitution on the continent, particularly.
COSATU launched a national programme against xenophobia and for social integration of all people in communities to build diversity, respect for each other and more tolerance for other people.
In this regard, our Provincial structures are actively involved in the affected areas and communities, working with alliance and community leaders to address the scourge of attacks that has afflicted our society.
What is happening is certainly not a defining feature of South African people, workers in particular, but a few problematic elements.
Even in the context of genuine grievances, there is no justification to direct our anger at other suffering people, instead of uniting against the real problems we together face and must defeat.
Minister of Home affairs Malusi Gigaba was spot-on when he called on leaders to avoid making statements that may result in possible instigation or harm of whatever form, particular in this very delicate situation now.
We commit to continue working with his department, alliance components and the rest of society to confront this scourge.
Statement issued by Bongani Masuku, COSATU International Relations Secretary, April 10 2015
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