A State of shame
The xenophobic attacks occurring around the country are nothing less than disgusting.
No life is less important than the next, and no one in this country has the right to harm anyone, no matter what the circumstances.
Yes, we have foreigners in South Africa, and yes, some of these foreigners are in this country illegally. Yes, some of these foreigners are employed and some are entrepreneurs.
Let us not forget that some are also destitute and turned to South Africa as a last hope. They came here for a better life, a life they thought South Africa could provide. Maybe they now regret that decision.
South Africans who think foreigners are stealing their jobs and are the origin of crime in the country are naive and ignorant. South Africans are just as much to blame. This country has many issues, and forcing foreigners to flee in fear is not going to make these issues go away.
As South Africans, we should be ashamed of ourselves right now. As residents of Africa, we need to stand together. The violence and hatred must stop and our president, leaders and respected parties need to help us find a state of peace again.
President Jacob Zuma condemning the violence in a monotone speech is not enough. His words were correct, but his posture said something else completely. There was no emotion or love in the president’s words – nothing that would make residents sit up and listen, like they did with the Zulu king’s speech a few days before – which evidently had the crowds cheering in agreement.
If King Goodwill Zwelithini did not mean to incite violence then why does he not stand up and condemn the acts taking place? Why is he silent now after being so opinionated last week?
One man’s opinion is not enough to throw this country into turmoil, but what he said seems to have resonated with some citizens of South Africa. Looking back to 2008, it seems some South Africans have carried their hatred for some time now.
I am ashamed of what we have done, more so because of where South Africa has been and the bright future that lies ahead. South Africans fought so hard for peace, democracy and a country to be proud of. Well, this is nothing to be proud of. What we are doing right now is shameful and embarrassing.
