South Africa is becoming a country of tears. We have lost many loved ones during the pandemic. Many are suffering due to job losses and hunger. Lives have been lost during the recent explosion of public violence in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. This turning point was an expression of the failed ANC nation building project. The ANC has created a divided society, a country in crisis and a fragile democracy. 

Despite the trauma, pain and challenges we face, some want us to turn on each other. They seek to foment more hate. We cannot let this happen. Over the past few days the following acts of racial incitement, threats, intimidation and calls have been made against Indians in general in an extremely volatile situation:

·       Black First, Land First: accuses the entire Indian community of anti-blackness, threatens deportation of Indians like Idi Amin did in Uganda and it also calls for anti-Black Indians to go to India (See here) 

·       The PAC: misleadingly suggests Indian people are waging a war against Africans, particularly in Phoenix and surrounding areas. Based on this misrepresentation it declares war on Indians (See here)

·       The EFF: through its leader Julius Malema has threatened on radio that he will engage in vigilante justice and vengeance against the community of Phoenix (See here).

We have to re-affirm South Africa belongs to all who live in it so we rebuild an inclusive society. South Africa needs to stand united and unwavering against race hatred. We call on you to sign this petition to affirm:

·       We stand against all forms of racist and vigilante violence;

·       Our constitutional commitment to being a non-racial and non-sexist democracy;

·       The supremacy of the constitution and rule of law;

·       The centrality of police and Human Rights Commission investigations into all killings in KZN, including Phoenix, and Gauteng over the recent period of widespread public violence. There must be justice;

·       Support for community-led just peace and non-racial building processes;

·       Transformative economic policies to address inequality and exclusion.

This petition is promoted by Co-operative and Policy Alternative Centre and Pietermaritzburg Peace Forum.