Mr Speaker, ahead of May 7 there have once again been incidents of political violence, and several lives have been lost. KwaMashu in KwaZulu-Natal has emerged as the hot spot. KwaMashu has seen problems of violence, not all of them political, for many years. In its many hostels the living conditions are poor and poverty is widespread. The ever-present tension and high levels of crime predict a violent outburst.
A multifaceted intervention by government to address the KwaMashu socioeconomic challenges is long overdue. We therefore call on the eThekwini Municipality, together with the provincial and national governments, to act now.
The IFP believes that political leaders have a responsibility to protect the lives of their people. In the words of Prince Buthelezi: We may not be able to change all the circumstances that breed aggression amongst grassroot activists, but we have a responsibility to try. There is no legal, political or moral justification for violence in our society.
It was this firm conviction that led the IFP's President, Prince Buthelezi, to write directly to the leader of the NFP, seeking an urgent meeting to diffuse the volatile situation in KwaMashu. He did this both to ensure free and fair elections and to prevent further loss of life. This initiative must be met with support by all role-players.
We therefore urge the police to intensify investigations and bring the perpetrators to book. It is unacceptable that arrests are delayed for more than a year or never happen. For the people of KwaMashu justice delayed is justice denied. Thank you. [Applause.]