20 May 2008
The criminal attacks against both foreign nationals and South African citizens over the last few days must be condemned by all our people.
We call on all affected communities to reject the criminal actions of those individuals who have no respect for the lives or dignity of their neighbours.
We call on all political formations, civic organisations, community based organisations, religious leaders, youth and women leaders, and all institutions of the state to unite in a concerted effort to halt these senseless attacks.
We call on law enforcement agencies to deploy all necessary resources to affected areas to prevent further violence, and to apprehend those responsible.
These attacks are being fuelled by criminals, who are making use of the vulnerability of foreign nationals, to loot and steal.
South Africans will not stand for this.
We call on all those who may have real concerns and grievances to raise these through the correct channels, in a peaceful and responsible manner.
As the African National Congress we have deployed our leaders and structures to work with other parties and stakeholders to address this grave problem.
Now is the time for South Africans to unite to overcome the scourge of violence and sheer criminality.
Jacob Zuma
ANC President