The African Parliamentary Aides Association (AFPAA) has condemned in strong terms the xenophobic attacks that have been taking place in South Africa leading to the deaths of Africans especially Nigerians resident in the country.
In a statement signed by the association’s President, High Chief Barrister Emeka Nwala the African parliamentary body described the attacks as devastating and capable of under-developing Africa.
Xenophobic attacks which have for years occurred in South Africa are habitually targeted at African emigrants particularly Nigerian nationals by South Africans.
The attacks reoccurred recently claiming some lives, leaving many others injured.
The African parliamentary association noted that the attacks are capable of eroding African unity, cooperation and integration which constitute the bedrock of African Union and Pan African parliament.
The parliamentary body lampooned the South African government over its failure to contain the lingering violence against African nationals.
It described the inability on the part of South African government to protect foreign nationals resident in the country as a sign of weakness and diplomatic blunder.
The association reminded South African government that subjection of foreign nationals to such inhuman treatment and wanton destruction of their property was against the rule of law, fundamental human rights and international protocols which the country is a signatory to.
Noting that South African nationals are also spread across other African nations including Nigeria the association stated that it was unwise for South African government to allow xenophobia to continue to thrive in the country.
The parliamentary body reminded South African government that what is happening in the country could prompt reprisal attacks against its nationals in other African nationals.
The association emphasized that Africans must not become enemies to one another with a note that the spirit of Pan-Africanism demands cooperation, tolerance, and mutual respect among all nations and peoples of Africa.
‘Xenophobia undermines regional integration, economic cooperation, and the free movement of persons, which are critical to Africa’s development’, the association added.
The parliamentary body called on the African Union to take immediate and decisive action to call South Africa to order and to address this crisis.
The actions according to the association should include engaging the South African government to ensure the protection of all African nationals within its borders, enforcing accountability and bringing the perpetrators book to stem the tide of future occurrence.
The association demanded justice from the Government of South Africa by punishing the offenders and showing commitment to the safety and dignity of all residents, regardless of nationality to ensure cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
The association noted its solidarity with all victims of xenophobic violence and reiterated its commitment to advocating for the rights, safety, and dignity of parliamentary aides and all Africans across the continent.
