Attacks on foreign nationals condemned

Zokwana was speaking at ZZ2 in Mooketsi during an Outreach Programme held in response to xenophobic attacks.

The Outreach Programme discussed ways of strengthening the existing support network for peaceful coexistence in the country, focusing on preventing the violence from escalating into farming communities where some foreign nationals are employed.

The minister said the department embarked on the programme following a directive from the office of the President to government departments to respond to the recent attacks on foreign nationals in various parts of the country.

Zokwane said the Government condemns violent attacks on foreign nationals in the strongest terms.

“We must stop the attacks because this is not who we are as a nation. These attacks on

foreign nationals misrepresent our hard-earned democratic order. As government, we

appeal for calmness and restraint from all South Africans and foreign nationals alike,” he said.

He said some of the attacks appear to be the result of criminal elements bent on taking advantage of the unease in communities to serve their political or criminal ends.

“ Police are working around the clock to protect both foreign nationals and citizens. Looters and those committing acts of violence will be arrested. We are repeating, to say these attacks on foreign nationals are a criminal offence and will not be tolerated,” warned Zokwana.

He added that a negative perception exists among the nation that foreign nationals are using resources meant for South Africans and as government we say this is not true. ”No

amount of economic hardship and discontent can ever justify the criminal activities associated with these attacks,” said Zokwana.

The minister was joined by the Chief Executive Officer of ZZ2 Tommie Van Zyl, the mayor of Greater Letaba Municipality, City Modjadji, representatives of farmers organizations, government officials and farm workers in condemning the attacks on foreign nationals.