Chairperson, there has always been debate on what is in a name. On the one hand, there are those who believe that if you give a dog a bad name, you really consign it to be hung, while others feel that it doesn't matter. The question of Khutsong in Carletonville in the North West province has come to dominate the news. If it is not people marching, it is this or that teacher in court for having caused a strike.
Khutsong may mean a place of rest or a cursed place. It is clear that the first definition doesn't fit in with what is going on there. That place is tending to answer to that of a curse and that is unfortunate. The North West provincial government has done much to ensure that schooling is salvaged, particularly for the Grade 12 learners.
We appeal to all concerned: the central government, the North West provincial government and the residents of Khutsong to make that place a place of peace. The UCDP further appeals to the residents of Khutsong to await the decision of the Constitutional Court and refrain from mounting marches and stayaways while their concerns are being attended to.
The fact that pupils were taken to Taung to prepare for exams against the will of the majority of residents is inconsequential, as these learners were not abducted. They boarded buses voluntarily and their parents have access to them, as and when they wish to see their children. The UCDP calls on all involved in this matter to allow the students to prepare themselves for the future without any disturbance. I thank you.