Chairperson, I suspect that it would be incorrect to mislead one another on a very sensitive matter in the country right now - the Reitz Four. I think it is appropriate that I respond on behalf of the ANC.
I think this is a very explosive situation and requires all of us, particularly those of us who are in this House, to handle it with great sensitivity so that when we go out to our constituencies we understand fully the implications of reconciliation. This is so that when you talk about reconciliation, it starts with a confession, it starts with forgiveness, it starts with a healing process.
I think this is a painful process, which we have all been going through in this country since 1994. Therefore, even in the case of these young men, I think all of us, as parents, as mothers, should be quite sympathetic to the four young men, who should be at school, who should be learning, so that tomorrow they can be leaders of this country.
However, it was important for Prof Jansen, as he took the decision, to take into consideration the principles of restorative justice and to have broader consultation with the people affected, the victims, and the families of those who have offended. This is so that at the end of the day when you reach an agreement, when you reach a decision which is likely to whip up the emotions of the South African public, you know that you have the backing of all South Africans. I think this is what the people are saying here.
I think South Africans have gone beyond the period of retribution and wanting to take revenge. We have gone through that period. What we want, though, if you have done wrong is that you have the humility to confess and apologise and let your victims accept, and you heal and reconcile. I think these are the fundamentals of reconciliation.
I don't really think there are any normal-thinking South Africans who have bad wishes for these young boys. Personally, I am a mother of four boys. I don't wish that because these are white children, that they should not be provided an opportunity to get an education. First things first, and this must be done in the correct way. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]