ANC STATEMENT ON RACIAL ABUSE AT FREE STATE UNIVERSITY

The African National Congress is appalled at the outrageous acts of racial abuse committed by students at the University of the Free State.

The ANC joins the overwhelming majority of South Africans - both black and white - in finding such behaviour barbaric and repugnant.

The acts captured in video footage show utter contempt for the inherent dignity of all people and a shocking disrespect for black people, women and people who are their seniors. It is reminiscent of the most perverse forms of racism that were committed against South Africa's black majority during its apartheid past.

While these actions were committed by a few individuals, they point to a racist sentiment that persists at the university and which continues to resist integration and transformation.

It places a responsibility on the entire university to community to recognise and confront these sentiments so that the rights and dignity of all students, workers and staff are protected.

The ANC calls for the strongest possible action to be taken against those responsible, for the university to take proactive measures to root out racist behaviour, and for all stakeholders to work together to mend relations at the institution.

These appalling deeds have shocked the nation. They should serve as a call to action to all our people to confront the demon of racism that has plagued our society for generations. Such deeds should unite all of us in our determination to make a decisive break with the attitudes and practices of our past.

Issued by the African National Congress February 28 2008