ANC welcomes Government move to restore order and safety

14 September 2012

The African National Congress welcomes government reflection on the ongoing labour unrest, violence and intimidation in the mining sector that has caused tragic loss of lives and undermined our collective efforts of ensuring economic growth, socio-economic transformation, stability, and safety and security.

It is the responsibility of our government to contain these isolated events, bring the situation under control and to ensure that order, peace and stability are restored. We call on government, labour, business and civic society to work in partnership to promote sustainable economic development in our country and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Our constitution provides for the right to organise and to collectively bargain and strike. We also have a world class and progressive legal framework to reduce industrial relations conflict and eliminate unfair discrimination in the workplace.

We need to recommit ourselves to effective social dialogue and to strive to find a common vision to take us forward. We call on the strikers to observe and act in accordance with the rule of law, and to desist from illegal acts, incitement, as well as threats of violence.

We further call on all South Africans to work with the authorities and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the situation is brought to normality. Working together we can restore peace and stability and put our country back on the road peaceful resolution of conflict, economic stability, job creation, and safety and security.

Issued by:
Jackson Mthembu
ANC National Spokesperson
African National Congress

Enquiries:
Ishmael Mnisi 0823335550
Keith Khoza 0828239672