Issued by: SA Communication Service
MEDIA RELEASE BY THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS, MS LINDIWE SISULU: 13 JUNE 1997
A Burundian refugee, Jean-Pierre Kanyangwa, died on his way to the hospital on Monday, June 2, shortly after being brought to the offices of the Department of Home Affairs in Cape Town by the South African Police Services. Mr Kanyangwa was arrested by police at the Cape Town station earlier the day and was brought to the Department of Home Affairs at 14:00. At that time an immigration officer noted that he was in pain and an ambulance was called immediately. The immigration officer accompanied Mr Kanyangwa in the ambulance to assist paramedics.
It is with sadness that I learnt of the death of Mr Kanyangwa. The circumstances and the allegations surrounding his death shocked me and I therefore asked for an immediate report. On the basis of this report I am satisfied that the conduct of Home Affairs officials in this matter was above reproach.
I am really saddened that this has happened, because we are particularly concerned about the plight of refugees. This Government has an obligation towards refugees and is bound by International Law to protect refugees.
It is unfortunate that the Department of Home Affairs was even associated with this incident as the refugee section of the Department of Home Affairs is uniquely sensitive and outstanding in its dedication to serve refugees and is a section that I am unashamedly proud of.
The Government has pledged itself to protecting and guaranteeing the rights of refugees. I have worked very closely with refugee fora across the country and I am mortified at the possibility that this unfortunate incident might have an impact on the work we have already done.
Furthermore, the Government has the highest regard for human life and dignity. This is enshrined in our Constitution. Any allegations to the contrary will therefore be investigated thoroughly and should any employee of the State found to be guilty of misconduct in this regard, the law of this country will follow its course.
My information is that an autopsy was performed and that a murder docket has been opened.
I have already met with Mr Nicholas of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and the matter has also been taken up with the Minister for Safety and Security.
I wish to once again in South Africa of my Department's commitment to treat all refugees with dignity and in accordance with international refugee conventions.