Thank you, Speaker. The ANC condemns acts of improper conduct by certain members of the public who formed part of the national Human Rights Day celebration in Athlone yesterday.
We are informed that some attendees at this important government event became rowdy during the proceedings, and their behaviour included heckling and the interruption of the programme. These acts demonstrate intolerance towards opposing views and undermine the significance and dignity of our country's historical and commemorative days.
We are sensitive to the frustrating conditions under which the poor majority of the people in the Western Cape are living. They have consistently been overlooked by the government of the province and the city in favour of the rich in affluent suburbs. [Interjections.]
Order!
We are also aware of the onslaught on their dignity and humanity, in that they have been forced to use degrading open toilets, forced to worship in open fields after the police demolished their churches and mosques, and forced to sleep under the open, cold skies after their government destroyed their shelter and shot at them merely for living close to the rich suburbs. [Interjections.]
Mindful of these frustrations, we nevertheless appeal to the people of this province not to vent their anger in a disruptive manner, but to channel it in a progressive manner - through the ballot ... [Interjections.] [Time expired.] [Applause.]
Order, hon members!