Pretoria - Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has urged South Africans to desist from attacking foreign nationals living in the country.
She said the attacks on foreign nationals do not represent South Africa’s democratic order and diversity.
“Violence meted out to anyone on the basis of their nationality is not a true reflection of who we are as a nation and it is punishable by law. Perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” the Minister said on Monday.
Furthermore, the Minister has conveyed her sincerest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and those who have been negatively affected by the attacks.
Due to the recent spate of attacks on foreign nationals, Minister Mapisa-Nqakula has cut her official trips to Turkey and Indonesia short by a week earlier than they were scheduled to end.
Spokesperson Joy Peter said the Minister deemed it necessary to be part of government’s efforts to address the prevailing security situation in South Africa.
Minister Mapisa-Nqakula will join the team of Ministers identified and tasked by President Jacob Zuma to deal with the situation decisively and comprehensively.
“The main focus is to engage all the relevant parties to return calm to the affected areas and find a sustainable solution,” said Peter.
Minister Mapisa-Nqakula will visit volatile areas and affected communities. – SAnews.gov.za
