Chairperson, in a recent article, Richard Goldstone predicted the outcome of the Russell Tribunal on Palestine that sat in Cape Town this past weekend, by saying, and I quote, "The evidence is going to be one-sided as the members of the jury are critics whose harsh views of Israel are well-known."
The panel of jurists that has been referred to by some as a kangaroo court concluded that Israel is, and I quote, "... in breach of the prohibition of apartheid under international law".
As a black man who was born in apartheid South Africa, I agree with former judge Richard Goldstone, who said, and I quote, "The charge that Israel is an apartheid state is a false and malicious one that precludes rather than promotes peace and harmony."
I sincerely believe that the Russell Tribunal on Palestine dishonours victims of apartheid. I have visited Israel on a few occasions and have not seen the false allegations spread by this London-based organisation. For example, black South Africans were not allowed to vote and have representation in Parliament. The Palestinians living in Israel have the right to vote and have members of Parliament representing them.
By law blacks were not allowed to use amenities reserved for whites only. We could not use their hospitals, schools, universities, beaches, buses, coaches and many other luxuries. The Palestinians share all amenities in Israel.
I urge the Russell Tribunal on Palestine to stop their wild allegations against Israel that are aimed at isolating, demonising and de-legitimising it, and rather acquaint themselves with the true facts. Thank you. [Interjections.]