The EFF Western Cape condemns the unnecessary deaths of young people and business owners in Western Cape townships due to gang violence. Notwithstanding the fact that our communities have been riddled with gangsterism for years with no forthcoming solutions, the likes of Manenberg, Valhalla Park, Elsies River, Bontehewuel, Mitchell’s Plain etc.
The EFF Western Cape notes that social and economic disparities characterised by landlessness, inequality, poverty and racism are the primary drivers of all social ills affecting black communities. To this day, the government, ANC led at national and DA – led at provincial and local level, has failed dismally to dismantle apartheid spatial planning. Townships still remain inhumane concentration camps that must supply cheap labour and where black people must remain non-humans that kill each other over limited resources.
The government’s blatant refusal over the years to ensure equitable land redistribution; its refusal to provide quality service delivery and spacious, well-serviced human settlements and its refusal to invest in free, quality, decolonised education ; sports, arts and culture and equipped life skills facilities in areas where black people are, is why we find ourselves in this mess.
The EFF Western Cape further acknowledges that the DA government will never be truthful and sincere in implementing and sustaining such programs. As long as Blacks are killing each other, they are feeling secure and safe in their palaces.
As much as heavy policing alone will not root out gangsterism and all associated criminal activities we so condemn, the EFF Western Cape calls for Metro Police, SAPS and special Anti-Gang task teams to work together in bringing these gang leaders and their cohorts to book.
The EFF Western Cape further calls for public awareness and a strong public stance again gangsterism and violence in our communities.
Furthermore, long overdue economic and social justice must be realised to ensure black people are equal beneficiaries and participants in their land. For as long as the call for economic freedom in our lifetimes remains just a call, we will continue burying each other and our children while those who stole and continue stealing from us live like royalty in the land of our forefathers.
Statement issued by the EFF Western Cape