ACT NOW SA GOVERNMENT - END RHINO KILLINGS & IMMINENT RHINO EXTINCTION!

Why This Is Important

3 February 2012:  We are nearing D-day, 22 February 2012, the day the Rhino Ultimatum will be presented to President Zuma, 9 other office bearers, 9 Provincial heads, the UN, AU and many more.  Time is critical.  Please share this to your friends and contacts, asking them to sign.  Also, very important:  we need your input.  Pls take a minute to complete this survey (once you have signed), telling us if you will attend the Rhino Ultimatum hand over event, what YOU would like us to ask President Zuma for you, and any comments you would like us to convey to him.  Please link to the survey here, thank you:  http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/JB65RYP

The RHINO ULTIMATUM, addressed to the South African government, is given by us, the Signatories, and international awareness groups influential in the eco-tourism industry, as well as wildlife organisations, including the International Animal Rescue Foundation (est 1970).  The Rhino species - a World Heritage icon and a cornerstone species of the Big 5 - is held in trust by the South African government for our and future generations.  Rhino survival stands on a knife edge today.  Since the making of this video, the Rhino species has around three to four years left on Earth.

We, South African citizens, demand that our Constitutional rights, specifically Section 24 of the Bill of Rights, be immediately upheld.  South African government ministers behave in breach of their Oaths of Office, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Bill of Rights, and in contravention of CITES international law.   Action MUST be taken now to end the Rhino killing carnage and avert imminent Rhino extinction.

Please read the full Rhino Ultimatum and comment - your comments are highly appreciated, then sign using your Facebook account / entering your particulars (address field is not disclosed publicly or to the petition organiser).  The 9 point plan and the Declaration of Intent are the two key elements in the Rhino Ultimatum. 

ON WEDNESDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2012, THE RHINO ULTIMATUM - OUR IMMEDIATE AND UNWAVERING CALL TO ACTION - WILL BE DELIVERED PERSONALLY AND ENTIRELY, INCLUDING EVERY SIGNATURE, TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESSEES AT THE UNION BUILDINGS, PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA:

1.  Office of the President, Mr Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma
2.  Office of the Deputy President, Mr Kgalema Petrus Motlanthe
3.  Minister of International Relations and Co-operation, Ms Maite M. Nkoana-Mashabane
4.  Minister of Environmental and Water Affairs, Ms B.E. Molewa
5   Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson,
6.  Minister of Trade and Development, Dr Rob Davies
7.  Minister of Tourism, Mr Marthinus van Schalkwyk
8.  Minister in the Presidency: Performance Monitoring, Evaluation, Administration, Mr Ohm Collins Chabane
9.  Minister of Communications, Ms D. Pule
10. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr J.T. Radebe

It will be delivered to nine South African Provincial Government Premiers, nine South African Government Directors General, United Nations Secretary General, the African Union, CITES, IUCN Directors General and the world media.

OUR COLLECTIVE, IMMEDIATE AND UNWAVERING CALL TO ACTION TO HALT THE IMMINENT EXTINCTION OF THE RHINO SPECIES IS:

1. We EXPECT the South African government place an IMMEDIATE MORATORIUM ON THE ISSUING OF RHINO TROPHY-HUNTING PERMITS:

a) until such time as the rumoured corruption surrounding these permits is investigated, and any and all government officials, private individuals and/or groups of individuals found to be in contravention of South African and CITES laws are prosecuted to the full extent of the law. A recent report showed that over the past three years, at least 69% of Rhino trophy-hunting activities have fronted for illegal trafficking and trade in Rhino horn with the Far East.
b) because it directly relates to the fact that no accurate living Rhino population number in South Africa is known - for both Black and White Rhino. Numbers and statistics vary dramatically depending on the "statistic" issuing authority. Reputable wildlife conservationists estimate the number of live Rhino remaining in South Africa today to be 9 500 to 11 000. South African government claims the number to be in the region of 22 000.
c) which must remain in place until such time as the issuing of these permits is fully transparent and follows good governance principles as laid down by the King III Commission of 2009.
d) so that the South African government can make informed decisions about the protection and preservation of the Rhino species.

2. We EXPECT the South African government place an IMMEDIATE MORATORIUM ON THE SALE OF STATE OWNED RHINO until a complete census of Rhino population numbers has been commissioned and completed.  An accurate number of living Rhino is not known.  So, in all good conscience the SA government cannot sell publicly owned Rhino.

3. We EXPECT the South African government to commission an IMMEDIATE AND COMPLETE CENSUS of the Rhino population in South Africa, using best possible methodology to ascertain with ACCURACY the number of living black and white Rhino. We EXPECT this census to be monitored and audited by an independent conservation body (the complete census should take no longer than two weeks).

4. We EXPECT the South African government to IMMEDIATELY LIFT THE UNCONSTITUTIONAL MEDIA-GAG ORDER currently in place. The media-gag order witholds vital Rhino death statistics and information from Citizens of the United Nations of the World.

5.  We EXPECT the South African government to IMMEDIATELY APPOINT A PANEL OF DIVERSE EXPERTS TO EVALUATE THE RHINO HORN TREATMENT INITIATIVE endorsed by South African and international wildlife conservationists as an immediate, effective, holistic and sustainable solution to the Rhino carnage.

6. We EXPECT the South African government to IMMEDIATELY CLARIFY ITS INTENTION with regard to the trade in Rhino horn. It has been reported that it is considering applying to CITES to lift the 1993 CITES international ban of trade in Rhino horn, as well its own internal ban of Rhino horn trade.  The state is required to be a law-abiding citizen.  Rhino horn trade within the borders of South Africa would only encourage illegal activity, that being to ship Rhino horn from South Africa to other countries in contravention of CITES laws.

7. We EXPECT the South African government to IMMEDIATELY DESTROY ALL STOCK-PILED RHINO HORN, estimated to be 10 000 - 12 000 kilograms in weight.  Rhino horn has been proven in numerous University and Scientific studies to have no medicinal properties. Then, why is it necessary for the South African government to stock-pile something as valueless and useless as Rhino horn? Any talk of trade in Rhino horn simply fuels the 'medicine' myth and is destructive to the survival of the Rhino species.  Therefore Rhino horn stockpiles must be burned.

8. We EXPECT the South African government to INSTITUTE THE 1993 CITES RECOMMENDATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS in its entirety, and that it, furthermore, demonstrates how this will be ENFORCED AND MONITORED.

9. We EXPECT the South African government to IMMEDIATELY ENGAGE THE PEOPLES' REPUBIC OF CHINA, a co-signatory to the 1993 CITES agreement, for the purpose of trans-national co-operation to end the trade in animal body-parts and by-products, including all diplomatic measures at the SA government's disposal, invoking multi-national alliances and economic sanctions.

DECLARATION OF INTENT:
After Wednesday 22 February 2012, the South African government has until Sunday 22 April 2012, to implement and effect the necessary legislation and measures described in the 9 points above.  Should it fail to act satisfactorily, we will implement immediate boycott action of certain South African economic segments, namely:

1. South African agricultural exports
2. South African services exports

Furthermore, we note with concern, that should the RHINO ULTIMATUM receive unsatisfactory response from the South African government by the due date of Sunday 22 April 2012, the impact on South Africa as a tourist destination will be greatly affected. It will certainly tarnish South Africa's reputation as an international eco-tourism destination. In addition, it will negatively impact South Africa's reputation as a member of the African Union and the United Nations.

This Declaration of Intent may also include an application to the Consitutional Court of the Republic of South Africa demanding that the South African government fulfils its Constitutional obligations described herein.

Quick links: http://international-animalrescue-foundation.org.uk/international-rescue-foundation/rhino-petition/    and  https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/International-Animal-Rescue-Foundation-Rhino-Press-Office-South-Africa/281734388539316   and   https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/International-Animal-Rescue-Foundation-World-Action-South-Africa/199685603444685   and  https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/International-Animal-Rescue-Foundation/137316969702280

SUPPORTING REFERENCES FOR THIS PETITION:
1. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa
2. South African office bearers' obligations and Oaths of Offices
3. South Africa's United Nations status
4. South Africa's African Union status
5. South Africa's General Memberships

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, is viewed internationally as one of the most progressive and respected in existence. It was carefully drafted between 1990 and 1994 by key South African and international leader, including Mr. Nelson Mandela.  The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa enshrines and advances the Constitutional rights and responsiblities of all South African citizens, individually and collectively.  Relevant extracts from the Constitution of the Repubic of South Africa, as evidence of the rights of South African citizens enshrined in the Bill of Rights, are included below. These rights include the protection and preservation of the South African National Wildlife Heritage.  Further, are the Oaths of Office sworn to by the President and Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa.

FROM THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBIC OF SOUTH AFRICA: BILL OF RIGHTS

24. Environment - Everyone has the right :­

-to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and
-to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that ­
  a)prevent pollution and ecological degradation;
  b)promote conservation; and
  c)secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources     while promoting justifiable economic and social development.

38. Enforcement of Rights:  Anyone listed in this section has the right to approach a competent court, alleging that a right in the Bill of Rights has been infringed or threatened, and the court may grant appropriate relief, including a declaration of rights. The persons who may approach a court are:

anyone acting in their own interest;
anyone acting on behalf of another person who cannot act in their own name;
anyone acting as a member of, or in the interest of, a group or class of persons;
anyone acting in the public interest; and
an association acting in the interest of its members.

39. Interpretation of Bill of Rights
1. When interpreting the Bill of Rights, a court, tribunal or forum ­
a. must promote the values that underlie an open and democratic society based on human dignity, equality and freedom;
b. must consider international law; and
c. may consider foreign law.
1.When interpreting any legislation, and when developing the common law or customary law, every court, tribunal or forum must promote the spirit, purport and objects of the Bill of Rights.
2. The Bill of Rights does not deny the existence of any other rights or freedoms that are recognised or conferred by common law, customary law or legislation, to the extent that they are consistent with the Bill.

SOUTH AFRICAN PUBLIC OFFICE BEARERS' OBLIGATIONS AND SWORN OATHS OF OFFICE DESCRIBED IN THE CONSTITUTION:

237. Diligent performance of obligations:  All constitutional obligations must be performed diligently and without delay.

Oath or solemn affirmation of the President and Acting President of the Republic of South Africa:  The President or Acting President, before the Chief Justice, or another judge designated by the Chief Justice, must swear/affirm as follows:  In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as President/Acting President of the Republic of South Africa, I, A.B., swear/solemnly affirm that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa, and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always ­promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it; protect and promote the rights of all South Africans; discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience;
do justice to all; and devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people. (In the case of an oath: So help me God.)

Oath or solemn affirmation of Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa:  The Deputy President, before the Chief Justice or another judge designated by the Chief Justice, must swear/affirm as follows:  In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, I, A.B., swear/solemnly affirm that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always ­promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it; be a true and faithful counsellor; discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience; do justice to all; and devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people. (In the case of an oath: So help me God.)

Oath or solemn affirmation of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the Republic of South Africa:  Each Minister and Deputy Minister, before the Chief Justice or another judge designated by the Chief Justice, must swear/affirm as follows:  I, A.B., swear/solemnly affirm that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, respect and uphold the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I undertake to hold my office as Minister/Deputy Minister with honour and dignity; to be a true and faithful counsellor; not to divulge directly or indirectly any secret matter entrusted to me; and to perform the functions of my office conscientiously and to the best of my ability. (In the case of an oath: So help me God.)

We, the people of South Africa, recognise the injustices of our past; honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land; respect those who have worked to build and develop our country; and believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.  We therefore, through our freely elected representatives, adopt this Constitution as the supreme law of the Republic so as to ­heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights; lay the foundations for a democratic and open society in which government is based on the will of the people and every citizen is equally protected by law; improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person; and build a united and democratic South Africa able to take its rightful place as a sovereign state in the family of nations.  May God protect our people. Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika. Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso. God seën Suid-Afrika. God bless South Africa. Mudzimu fhatutshedza Afurika. Hosi katekisa Afrika.

THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA: ITS UNITED NATIONS AND AFRICAN UNION STATUS, AND INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIPS:

As the Union of South Africa, the country was a founding member of the United Nations. The then Prime Minister Jan Smuts wrote the preamble to the United Nations Charter. The country is one of the founding members of the African Union (AU), and has the largest economy of all the members. It is also a founding member of the AU's New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). South Africa has played a key role as a mediator in African conflicts over the last decade, such as in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Comores, and Zimbabwe. After apartheid ended, South Africa was readmitted to the Commonwealth of Nations. The country is a member of the Group of 77 and chaired the organisation in 2006. South Africa is also a member of the Southern African Development Community, South Atlantic Peace and Cooperation Zone, Southern African Customs Union, Antarctic Treaty System, World Trade Organisation, International Monetary Fund, G20, and G8 + 5. South African President Jacob Zuma and Chinese President Hu Jintao upgraded bilateral ties between the two countries on 24 August 2010, when they signed the Beijing Agreement, which elevated South Africa's earlier "strategic partnership" with China to the higher level of "comprehensive strategic partnership" in both economic and political affairs, including the strengthening of exchanges between their respective ruling parties and legislatures.[In April 2011, South Africa formally joined the Brazil-Russia-India-China (BRICS) grouping of countries, identified by President Zuma as the country's largest trading partners, and also the largest trading partners with Africa as a whole. All five BRICS member countries are currently on the UN Security Council; Brazil, India and South Africa as non-permanent members. Zuma asserted that BRICS member countries would also work with each other through the UN, the Group of Twenty (G20) and the India, Brazil South Africa (IBSA) forum.

United Nations: Since its inception in 1945, UN membership has grown to 192 States. The United Nations General Assembly on 12 November 1974 suspended South Africa from participating in its work, due to international opposition to the policy of apartheid. South Africa was re-admitted to the UN in 1994 following its transition into a democracy. Since 1994 the democratically elected government has pursued a foreign policy based on the centrality of the UN in the multilateral system.

Twelve years after re-admittance to the UN, South Africa was honoured to be endorsed by the African Union (AU) and subsequently elected with an overwhelming majority to serve as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council during the period 2007-2008. During its tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), South Africa promoted the African Agenda namely peace, security and development. South Africa is again candidate for the non-permanent seat of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2011-2012, as endorsed by the African Union.

The African Union: The African Union represents the interests of African peoples at large in intergovernmental organisations (IGOs). For instance it is a permanent observer at the United Nations General Assembly. Both the African Union and the United Nations work in tandem to address issues of common concerns in various areas. The African Union has a number of official bodies:  Pan-African Parliament (PAP): It aims to become the highest legislative body of the African Union. The seat of the PAP is at Midrand, South Africa. The Parliament is composed of 265 elected representatives from all 54 AU states, and intended to provide popular and civil-society participation in the processes of democratic governance. Its president is Hon. Dr. Idriss Ndele Moussa of Chad. FINIS

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