ANC KZN condemns racial attacks and praises government interventions 

21 November 2016

The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal unreservedly deplores the racial overtone in the attacks and land invasions which recently reared itself within the communities of Puntan's Hill and Verulam on the north of Durban.

As the torch-bearer of non-racialism and leader of society, it would be irresponsible of the ANC to fold its hands and do nothing when the very foundation of our non-racial constitutional order is under-siege from backward forces. Informal settlements are a complex terrain and a major feature of urbanisation patterns especially with regard to eThekwini. There is often conflict between land invaders and formal residents. The land invasion unit is faced with a difficult and thankless task.

We must stress that land invasions are unlawful conduct that also affects the constitutional rights of citizens. The Department of Community Safety and Liaison which is responsible for SAPS is therefore a key stakeholder. At the same time, we understand that the need for land is a serious and legitimate one. With rapid urbanisation, this is going to be a continuous challenge that requires careful management.

We are also concerned about the impact on social cohesion and ask for cool heads from all stakeholders. We need communities to get organised and speak to each other on a sustained basis. We cannot respond to this unilaterally. All sectors of the community must be represented so that we can come up with sustainable solutions. The organisation also commended the role of the Premier Cde Willies Mchunu and eThekwini Mayor Cde Zandile Gumede for taking a direct interest in bringing calm to the affected areas.

“Demands for land are legitimate and the ANC prioritises responding to this need among our people. Land is a key factor in addressing the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment. The consistent position of the ANC is that we defend our people's right to land but take a strong line against unlawful land invasions, ,” said ANC Provincial Secretary, Cde Super Zuma.

He added that police must be supported in its work to investigate those behind the transgressions of the law and ensure they are brought to book.  “The historic role of the ANC is to unite our people and build our country.  Any attempts to racialise the current tensions must be resisted. All stakeholders are encouraged to work collectively in the interests of peace, stability and social cohesion.”

The ANC remain rooted among our people and will continue to address their concerns in meaningful and constructive manner. The ANC will continue to honour its responsibilities as leader of the society while fulfilling its principle for a united non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa.

Issued by Mdumiseni Ntuli, Provincial Spokesperson, ANC KZN, 21 November 2016