Hon Deputy Speaker, in spite of the great moments in sport recently, the self-esteem of the South African people has taken a beating from the disorderly and often violent strikes and protests. Yesterday's violent altercation between the police and the disorderly SANDF members is indicative of the anarchic trends taking root in our country.
A situation where those who are appointed to serve and protect the safety of our people and the integrity of our national interest draw arms against each other is, indeed, a new low. The lack of respect, order and discipline that has become an endemic feature in South African society should never be allowed in our security forces, a structure that is so central to the sovereignty of a nation.
Threats by Ministers to punish perpetrators with the full might of the law go unheeded and often have no impact. The Ministries concerned have got to apply disciplinary measures resolutely.
Images of clashes between security forces can do irreparable harm and risk our image as the leading constitutional democracy on the African continent.
The time has come to call the nation to do close introspection in order to find a national consensus towards a safe and prosperous society. Thank you.