Zim reluctant to confront SA over xenophobic attacks

By Staff Writer

ZIMBABWE has expressed reluctance to confront South Africa over the ongoing xenophobic attacks saying it is not necessary since the attacks do not reflect the neighboring country’s foreign policy.

This was said by foreign affairs deputy minister David Musabayana while responding to questions by legislators during the National Assembly’s Wednesday question and answer session.

“We cannot hold South Africa to account for xenophobic attacks. It is not their policy, so we denounce xenophobic attacks. Sadc and the Africa Union (AU) have always said no to xenophobic attacks,” he said.

 “The xenophobic attacks in SA against foreigners (Zimbabweans in particular) are not a reflection of South Africa. Our embassy in that country is engaging with the South African government and its relevant stakeholders to deal with the matter,” Musabayana said.

He said Zimbabwe is focused on protecting the citizens’ interests in the country and elsewhere underscoring that there are cordial relations with South Africa . We will also continue to assist those in need through our consulate in that country.

“Recently, SA issued a statement saying what some of the citizens were doing was not a reflection of its government. What happened was a criminal matter and soon those attacks on our citizens will be over. We have grown the economy and our people can now start to come back. In fact, very few people will be going to a foreign lands for job hunting because Zimbabwe has registered economic growth,” Musabayana said, to the chagrin of the rest of the house.

Marondera Central legislator, Caston Mateu, also requested government to approach Sadc on the matter.