South African government acknowledges the death of George Floyd

South African government acknowledges the death of George Floyd

- The South African government has reacted to the controversial death of George Floyd

- In a statement issued by Minister Naledi Pandor, the government addressed the racially-charged violence that has taken hold in the United States of America

- This comes after the ANC called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene

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The South African government has weighed in on the murder of George Floyd and the resulting chaos that ensued.

On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the citizens of South Africa International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor expressed sorrow at the incident and subsequent unrest:

“The violence that has characterised some of the protests seriously detracts from drawing international awareness to the legitimate concerns about violence against defenceless black people and other minorities in America.”

SA called on everyone in the country to exercise restraint when responding to the frustration expressed by citizens:

"South Africa calls on all in America especially the security forces to exercise maximum restraint in responding to the anger and frustration felt by many of its citizens' friends and international partners."

READ ALSO: ANC wants SA to intervene in US riots after George Floyd's death

While the event itself was a tragedy it has given the US an opportunity to address key issues explained Pandor:

"The regrettable death of Mr Floyd presents the USA with an opportunity to address fundamental issues of human rights such as freedom dignity and equality. Just as the people of America supported South Africa in its legitimate struggle against apartheid, South Africa too supports the clarion calls for practical action to address the inadequacies highlighted by protesters civil society and human rights organisations."

The struggle endured by South Africa gives the minister hope for the future of America:

“Recalling the steps post-apartheid South Africa bravely undertook as part of its new constitutional dispensation we are convinced that America - a beacon of freedom for many worldwide - has the ability to directly focus on healing and peace and achieve an outcome that prioritises respect for and promotion of fundamental freedoms for all Americans.”

The nation called on leaders across the globe to work together to address

"South Africa calls on all leaders to work together to end violence and to develop a set of measures that would serve to end the insecurity and harm experienced by many members of the African American community."

Briefly.co.za reported that the ANC had called on Ramaphosa and the SA government to use diplomatic channels to aid America during this difficult time of unrest and uncertainty.

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Source: Briefly News

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