Speaker, the ANC strongly condemns all acts of terrorism against unarmed and innocent civilians. The recent attack on innocent people in the capital of Kenya has left dozens dead and many wounded, including many South Africans. This should not be allowed to go unpunished.
Our position is clear. It is guided by the Freedom Charter clarion call, "There shall be peace and friendship amongst the nations of the world." The ANC remains committed to a peaceful Africa and a world free from terror, human suffering, poverty and varying degrees of political, social and economic oppression. As the ANC, we believe in always resolving problems via peaceful diplomacy. Our view is that attacks against civilians can never be justified under any circumstances. The ANC supports the call made by the President of Kenya and other leaders that those responsible for these atrocities should be punished for this heinous act of terror.
The ANC sends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the injured and to the general population of Kenya for their pain. Furthermore, we submit our deepest sympathies to the families of other foreign nationals who were killed during the mall attack, and in particular to the family of one of our own, Mr James Thomas. I thank you. [Applause.]