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The IFP calls on government to organise a community dialogue involving all
relevant role players to address recurring violent incidents in Gauteng and
other parts of South Africa that could be linked to xenophobia.

"The dialogue will seek to increase awareness about issues affecting foreign
nationals and to encourage a spirit of unity and peaceful co-existence between
South Africans and foreign nationals. There is a need to have more discussions
within communities about the issue and to increase efforts to integrate and
socialize with foreigners," said IFP National Chairperson, Mr Blessed Gwala.

"The intimidation of individuals because they are what residents deem to be "not
local" and based on the language they speak or their ethnicity, cannot be
allowed to continue unaddressed if we believe in our democracy. Racism must be
tackled head on if we are to have a peaceful future and attract much needed
foreign investment from international sources. What we need is a common sense
approach and strong political leadership to move forward," continued Mr Gwala.

"If condemnation of racism is not espoused at the highest level of government,
the effects will be long lasting and detrimental to South Africa as a whole.
Neglecting to take a strong stance against such prejudice will serve to validate
xenophobic attitudes. National narcissism has no place in our society,"
concluded Mr Gwala.

The IFP demands that there must be a coherent legal framework prohibiting
discrimination and racism of whatever sort. Without such a framework and its
concrete implementation and enforcement by the courts, a policy promoting
greater tolerance cannot succeed.

Issued by the IFP