13 June 2007
The SACP strongly condemns a series of state led violence directed at the workers who have been marching peacefully during the current public sector strike. These actions are provocative in the extreme and are aimed at demoralizing workers through intimidation. The shooting at workers in Kimberley today is a case in point.
Unleashing police brutality against peaceful demonstrators for a legitimate demand such as a decent living wage is only to invite problems and open a window for the opportunism that we have already seen creeping into the strike with some elements trying to turn this into a violent strike.
We also call upon senior government leaders to condemn all acts of violence and intimidation from whichever quarter it emerges, including the police. We must desist from one-sided, anti-worker and selective condemnation of violence, whilst turning a blind eye to state initiated violence against striking workers.
We urge government to seriously consider measures that are aimed at resolving the current deadlock. The actions of government have thus far showed little commitment on its part, and instead have resorted to tactics that are tantamount to union and worker bashing, and sowing divisions within the ranks of the workers through termination of employment and appropriation of the media to smash and bash unions.
This clearly demonstrates the lack of commitment in building a dynamic cadre to actively contribute to the building of a developmental state.
Whilst we all do not like to see the disruption of public services, the SACP will always be on the side of the workers on their demand for decent living wage.
Issued by the SACP.
For information Contact:
Malesela Maleka
SACP Spokesperson
082 226 1802