Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has called on the nation to use the anniversary of the Marikana tragedy as a time of reflection and prayer.
Friday will mark a year since the tragic incidents that occurred in Marikana, near Rustenburg in the North West, which claimed the lives of about 44 people.
“I would like to call upon all South Africans to treat the 16th of August as a day of prayer and reflection. We must pray for the families of all who lost their lives in Marikana, before and after the 16th of August. We must all resolve to do everything possible to prevent a repeat of similar incidents,” said President Zuma in a statement.
The event, Zuma said, shocked the whole country and caused “untold pain” amongst all South Africans.
“It was a tragic and sad loss of life. We pulled through because we united and ensured that the tragedy did not derail the country and efforts of nation building and reconstruction.”
He reiterated to the nation not to pre-empt the findings or interfere with the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, led by Judge Ian Farlam, which is looking into the incident.
Zuma called on government, labour and business to work together to achieve peace and stability in the mining sector, which remains a major source of economic growth and employment, especially during difficult global economic conditions.
Government, organised labour and organised business have committed to work together to restore peace and stability in the mines. The framework agreement, signed by the parties in July 2013, provides the basis for cooperation by all stakeholders to stabilise the mining sector and set it on a sustainable footing.
The framework is seen as an important step towards strengthening and stabilising the mining sector in ensuring that peace and stability prevail, so as to create an environment conducive to development.
Cautioning against further violence, Zuma said government will act decisively to enforce the law during protests - while reiterating that labour relations disputes and negotiations should be conducted according to the Labour Relations Act.
“Both workers and employers must ensure that all matters pertaining to labour relations, including union recognition agreements, verification of membership and wage negotiations are conducted within the Labour Relations Act, which lays the primary foundation for labour relations in South Africa.
“Government will act decisively to enforce the rule of law, maintain peace during strikes and other protests relating to labour disputes and ensure protection of life, property and the advancement of the rights of all.”
The President said the Mine Crime Combating Forum, which is aimed at peace and stability in the mines and surrounding communities, will ensure that law enforcement agencies act in a manner that is fair, impartial and objective, while working together with the companies, trade unions and communities.
“Workers and managers must go to work without fear that anyone would harm them. Workers must be free to exercise their Constitutional right to join any trade union of their choice, to declare disputes, to strike and to engage in any form of peaceful protest,” President Zuma said. - SAnews.gov.za
