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The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) in Gauteng is outraged by the barbaric incident of the killing of the Buyani Primary school principal this morning. Comrade Lazarus Baloyi was serving as SADTU Ennerdale Branch Secretary at the time of his untimely death.

Such criminal conduct must be dealt with promptly and decisively. It is devastating to the victims and those closely associated with them. It also sends a wrong message that differences are resolved through violence. The Constitution bestows the right to human life to all of us. No amount of grievances warrants the killing of other human beings.

We call on the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) to swiftly provide the necessary support to all the stakeholders at the school. Once again, we call on the GDE to strengthen security in our institutions. Schools are safety havens and centres for community development.

We further urge law enforcement agencies to act quickly and bring the culprits before the wrath of the law. We also call on all communities and progressive structures to mount school safety campaigns in pursuance of quality public education.

We dip our banner in honour of the contribution comrade Lazarus Baloyi made towards the unity and strength of the organization.

We extend our condolences to the family and all those closely related to him.

Issued by SADTU