Mr Speaker, the ANC calls on all South Africans to unite against racism. The ANC has committed to unity in our diversity as we build a national democratic society and develop social cohesion. We have also voiced the belief that all our people are entitled to and should enjoy political and human freedom, as well as socioeconomic rights with a common value system. Thus the 100-year-old ANC - and indeed many South Africans - were disturbed by the utterances of Steve Hofmeyr in the Red October march in Pretoria, when he was quoted as saying:
Immaterial of the statistics, we are not used to this mortality rate. We are not used to being raped at this rate. Most importantly, we aren't used to being raped by other cultures, tribes or ethnicities.
The ANC views this statement as irresponsible, reckless and divisive, especially at a time when all South Africans are expected to unite in our solidarity against violence and racism.
Ons moet almal saamstaan hier! [We should all be united in this regard.]
The ANC appeals to Mr Steve Hofmeyr and his colleagues to refrain from such utterances that are divisive and fuel racial discrimination. We should rather unite in mobilising our communities to participate in combating crime, whether in street committees, neighbourhood watches and community policing forums. Sekunjalo! Ke Nako! Take ownership - now is the time! Thank you. [Time expired.].