Press Release

ICHRRF expresses grave concern at the unfortunate incidents of ethnic violence and wanton killings after rioters took to the streets of the Republic of South Africa following the arrest of former president Jacob Zuma for contempt of court. As of July 22, the official death toll stands at 337 citizens murdered in broad daylight. ICHRRF is also profoundly concerned about the deterioration in the law and order situation and widespread violence, targeted looting, ransacking of property and business establishments owned by the South Africans of Indian origin. ICHRRF expresses its serious condemnation of the targeted killings of more than three hundred people in these pre-planned riots.

South Africa’s democracy, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996, has been lauded as one of the most progressive Constitutions in the world where all universal rights are enshrined. The ongoing incidents of ethnic violence are dangerous because of the long-term impact that it will have on the country, which has healed from a history of racial divide, inequality and oppression based on race. We deplore the attempts to create societal divisions based on ethnicity. ICHRRF believes that the Republic of South Africa as a democracy has a sincere commitment to build the country and uphold “Unity in diversity”.

Media reports that the government agencies are struggling to bring the violence under control. ICHRRF supports the Government led by the President Cyril Ramaphosa for its efforts to bring peace, restore the rule of law, and ensure accountability. The ICHRRF encourages the ruling party to live up to its high standards of integrity, motivate citizens to continue standing up against corruption and consistently uphold the rule of law. We also urge the Government that the persons accountable for the violence and instability must be brought to the wheels of justice in a prompt manner. We demand that the Government of South Africa provide immediate relief and fiscal compensation to those who have lost their loved ones, properties and businesses.