SAMA speaks out on xenophobia
The South African Medical Association is horrified by the spread of attacks aimed at foreign nationals in South Africa, and condemns it in the strongest possible terms.
The Association is particularly distressed by the loss of lives, the psychological and physical trauma and the violation of human rights sustained by the victims of the violence. The Association is also concerned about the additional demands placed on our healthcare services as a result of the attacks. There is no justification for the killing and maiming of innocent people.
The Chairman of SAMA, Dr. Kgosi Letlape says, “The physical harm and injuries resulting from this seemingly aimless campaign of violence have shocked South Africans and the entire world alike. As SAMA we join the many leaders such as former President Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu in calling for an immediate stop to violent attacks and any other form of harassment that is being perpetrated against foreign nationals living in South Africa.”
SAMA supports the peaceful airing of grievances and does not condone violence against any person.
SAMA would like to urge the relevant authorities to act speedily and decisively in resolving this tragic situation currently threatening to engulf the entire country. South Africans need to join hands to do whatever it takes to bring an end to these attacks and ensure this never occurs again.
The Association calls on its colleagues practising in areas of violence to respond professionally, ethically and emphatically and to make their professional expertise and space available for consultations and treatment. We urge them to act as leaders in their communities by being the voice of calm and providing support and assistance where needed.
