Letter to Jacob Zuma from the Methodist Bishop of Natal

THE METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

NATAL COASTAL DISTRICT
BISHOP MIKE VORSTER
138 ESTHER ROBERTS, GLENWOOD,
P O BOX 50452, MUSGRAVE, 4062

Tel: 031 202 3662

Fax: 031 202 0099

Email: ntlcoast@mweb.co.za
Tuesday, 06 October 2009

PRESIDENT J.G. ZUMA

P.BAG X1000

PRETORIA

0001

Dear President Zuma

KENNEDY ROAD INFORMAL SETTLEMENT, DURBAN.

As the Bishop of the Natal Coastal District, Methodist Church of Southern Africa, I am writing to you, deeply grieved by the recent developments and events, which have occurred in Kennedy Road. As you will no doubt be aware, tensions in this informal settlement are not new, and the formation of the community development movement known as Abahlali baseMjondolo aims to address the ongoing dissatisfaction of many of the 7000 residents, particularly as these relate to the provision of basic service amenities such as water and sanitation.

More recently however, the residents of this community have found themselves caught up in a struggle far more insidious than a conflict between city officials and their elected leadership. The spiral of violence seems to be fuelled by partisan dynamics, which are further aggravated by structural inadequacies and alleged collusion between members of the SAPS and the local branch of the ANC.

In particular, the specific targeting of homes and offices of members of Abahlali baseMjondolo, has resulted in deaths, detentions, beatings, loss of property and the displacement of an estimated 3000 people, including women and children, who have fled the area in fear of their safety. This situation has been exacerbated by the apparent or alleged inaction on the part of local police, specifically the Sydenham police station.

In light of these developments, I respectfully call on your office to urgently address this matter, with a view to establishing a commission of enquiry into all allegations that have led to violence and atrocious acts against innocent residents. This is a matter of accountability and all those guilty of the alleged crimes must be called to task.

I would furthermore urge your office to urgently seek ways of providing immediate relief to those affected, especially to the homeless and to those who find themselves vulnerable to further attacks and victimisation. Of particular concern is the safety of all school children. Parents must be assured of this safety. The necessary protection of the rights of every resident is core to the future stability of this settlement.

As a faith community we would like to offer our assistance in mediating a peaceful resolution to these long-standing tensions. As we all know through experience, that when people are drawn together in a spirit of reconciliation and understanding, the opportunities, which arise for greater tolerance and peace are far more sustainable.

I look forward to your urgent attention to our concerns, and would again take the opportunity to assure you of our willingness to participate in all efforts aimed at ensuring a peaceful and sustainable solution to these problems.

Bishop Michael Vorster.