Reconciliation needs collective effort – activist

WHILE faith-based organisations and politicians have attempted to foster reconciliation between Indian and

African communities in Phoenix and surrounding areas, violence monitors believe the tensions are deeper than they appear.

Although 10 suspects have been arrested in connection with the death of at least 20 people who were killed during the week of unrest, the situation remained tense between the two groups.

Police and soldiers had to keep a watchful eye outside the Verulam Magistrate’s Court this week where the suspects appeared on Monday and Friday.

The 10 accused were identified by the court on Friday, and face charges ranging from murder, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, possession of dangerous weapons, to possession of suspected stolen goods.

They were all remanded in custody and are expected to make a formal bail application on Thursday.

Violence monitor Mary de Haas said the killings were a symptom of the failure to pursue the nation-building agenda set in motion during the dawn of democracy.

“Although there are periodic complaints from African businesspeople about alleged preferential treatment of Indian businesses, it is important to note that in most areas such as Phoenix, which was historically an Indian group area, people of different races live amicably in the same neighbourhoods.

“There must be justice for victims who died in Phoenix, which is a starting point for reducing the anger of black Africans. However, there must be, together with justice, immediate steps to build relationships between people of different races in Phoenix.

“This cannot be left to politicians. I have suggested that at a community level, civil society groups be formed, like faith-based organisation representatives, people engaged in NPO work, and people who are respected in the community,” said De Haas.

Vanessa Burger, human rights and social justice activist, said a lot needed to be changed to restore peace between the affected communities.

“There is far too much collusion between criminals and senior officers who seem to be politically connected. This has been going on for far too many years, and does untold damage to communities.”