South Africa reassures PAP on security

May 04, 2016

Staff and country representatives had been victims of robberies while in South Africa

The South African government has assured Members of the Pan African Parliament of improved security and protection while in the country.

The Minister for Safety and Security, Hon. Charles Nqakula said that government had instituted measures to avoid a re-occurrence of violence targeting foreigners and their property in South Africa.

"Government is committed to a smooth functioning and success of the Pan African Parliament. We want to see this Parliament working in an environment that is conducive to pursue the Pan-African agenda," said Hon. Nqakula.

The Minister was speaking at the opening of the Second Ordinary Session of the Fourth Pan African Parliament held in Midrand, South Africa, May 3, 2016. 

Uganda's representatives at PAP are Hon. Onyango Kakoba (NRM, Buikwe North), Hon. Sam Otada (Ind., Kibanda), Hon. Elijah Okupa (FDC, Kasilo), Hon. Jacqueline Amongin (NRM, Ngora) and Hon. Beatrice Barumba (NRM, Kiruhura).

In 2008 and January 2015, violence erupted in various parts of South Africa targeting foreigners, their businesses and property. A number of people were killed or displaced and property destroyed.

Last year and early this year, Pan African Parliament delegates were robbed of cash and property as they arrived at their hotel in Midrand. 

Pan African Parliament President Hon. Roger Nkodo said staff and country representatives had been victims of robberies while in South Africa, appealing for government's help.

The Minister said government had put in place measures at national and provincial levels and sensitized local communities about the issue of xenophobia. 

Former Mozambique President, Joaquim Chissano appealed to African governments to sign and ratify the amended Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the Pan African Parliament granting the institution full legislative powers.

"When a decision is taken democratically, it becomes binding to everyone, even when you do not agree with it," said H.E Chissano.

He also appealed to African governments to look for ways to internally generate required funds if the continent is to succeed with the 50 year development programme - Agenda 2063. 

The Second Ordinary Session of the Fourth Pan African Parliament is being held at the headquarters of the Pan African Parliament, May 3 - 13, 2016.

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