_: The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Marikana tragedy has noted with appreciation that since it began with its work, the situation in Marikana is stabilising and that negotiations are taking place to resolve the labour dispute. The committee has also commended those in our society for the support they have provided to bereaved families and those who continue to work tirelessly to ensure that stability prevails.

The Committee further noted irresponsible and inflammatory statements made by some in our society which does not assist during this difficult period.

The Committee wish to condemn, in the strongest possible terms statements that incite violence and causes unwarranted instability in our country. Those who issue irresponsible and provocative statements must realise the gravity of their actions and must take responsibility.

These statements provoke emotions of people and do not assist the country in the process of healing after a national tragedy, where 44 people lost their lives.

“As leaders, we need to be responsible when we make statements. We need to be mindful that people have lost their lives and families are in grief. Government has a responsibility to maintain law and order and therefore will not tolerate any irresponsible and unwarranted provocation from any quarters of our society” said Minister in The Presidency, Collins Chabane.

Government wish to guarantee the right of all citizens to protest and to associate as guaranteed by our constitution. However, the committee called on anyone who wishes to protest to do so within the ambit of the law and desist from carrying dangerous weapons during these protests.

“The carrying of dangerous weapons in circumstances which have the potential to result in violence does not assist in any way to advance the cause of those who are protesting and adherence to the law is paramount in this regard” said Minister Chabane.

The Committee calls on all law enforcement agencies to do anything necessary to prevent any further loss of lives and ensure that both private and public property is protected.

The Committee is also concerned with the situation which is erupting in other mines and through the Department of Labour and Mineral Resources, dialogue will continue to assist in resolving the issues. In this regard, the Committee calls for constructive leadership which will lead to an amicable solution to the current impasse.