LET US ALLOW ICD TO INVESTIGATE THE FICKSBURG MARCH KILLING - URGES MINISTER MTHETHWA
Police have a duty to maintain law and order, equally marchers must not provoke police
CAPE TOWN - The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa this morning expressed his full confidence that the Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) will, without fear or favour investigate an alleged killing of a striking resident by police during a march in Ficksburg, as captured in by SABC news footage last night.
"We noted the unfortunate incident where there was a scuffle between a striker and the police. At this point it would be inappropriate to draw conclusions on what triggered the alleged incident and the resultant death, but we have every confidence that the ICD will investigate the incident without delay."
"It is therefore unfortunate that a life has been lost but we would like to urge all in society, to allow the investigative process to run its cause. From where we are, it will be improper to draw conclusions on the incident but remain confident that an impartial investigation will inform us what transpired, who was in the wrong, and so forth," added the Minister.
The ministry issued a public statement almost two months ago (16 February 2011) where we emphasized that strikes are democratic and constitutional rights of every citizens to express themselves, which government fully respects. However what the constitution does not prescribe are violent, barbaric, destruction of property and intolerant conducts, including provoking and touting police.
The ministry further reiterates its stance that the majority of strikers are tolerant and law-abiding citizens but it is only a few minority with criminal mindsets who commit such acts; thus negatively tarnishing the image of other strikers.
Minister Mthethwa once again urges all citizens who are involved in marches, to remain disciplined and not provoke or insult police whilst at the same time, stressed that the role of the police during these marches is to maintain public order and protect law-abiding and disciplined citizens.
Statement issued by Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister and Deputy Minister of Police, April 14 2011
Source: SABC TV news via www.iol.co.za
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