Wednesday, 08 December 2010
Abahlali baseMjondolo & Rural Network Press Statement

Victory Against Farm Murders in the eShowe Regional Court

 

 

Justice was delayed for Thembinkosi Mpanza and Vukani Shange but it was not, in the end, denied. Moments ago Jabulani Sithole and Phumlani Thusi were convicted of murder and attempted murder in the eShowe Regional Court.

This case dates back to 17 June 2006 when Thembinkosi Mpanza was 17 and Vukani Shange was 16 years. They were shot to death by the Farm Watch on Horse Shoe Farm near eShowe. They had taken some sugar cane to chew on while walking home from school. For this, the crime of enjoying the fruits of their own land, they were killed. There is more information on the case here.

This case was adjourned 25 times before the killers were finally brought to justice. These delays in our justice system are unacceptable.

The Rural Network has previously noted that this case: “Raises question about whose life is important or less important in this country. We have noted with great despair that when a poor person on a farm is shot by a farmer and their Farm Watch no one cares. Neither government nor media take it seriously but if it is the farmer that is killed the whole world is shaking.” It is clear that if you are poor and black your life does not count the same as a person who is rich and white. We are saying that everyone’s life must count the same. We are saying that we are willing to struggle in the streets, in the farms and in the courts to make this principle a reality in the world.

We will continue to struggle for a world in which everyone’s life counts the same. We will continue to struggle for a world in which it is recognised that land is a gift from God that should be a common treasury for all and not the private property of the rich. We will continue to stand with all families that suffer abuses like murder, beatings and the impoundment of their cattle on farms.

For more information and comment direct from the celebrations at the court please contact:

Rev. Mavuso
Rural Network Spokesperson
072 279 2634

Mr M'du Sibisi
eMasangweni Rural Network Branch Chairperson
073 387 9265

Mr S’bu Zikode
Abahlali baseMjondolo President
0835470474