Manuel Ferreira
28-03-2008, 20:06
Media Statement
Chris Hattingh - Provincial Leader – DA North West.
The DA in the North West today rejoices with the people of Pomfret in
celebrating a victory in the Supreme Court against the State after years of
intimidation and victimisation, followed by the recent weeks of intensified
pressure against the community and the forceful relocation of some
inhabitants to Mafikeng.
The recent weeks also were also characterised by state vandalism where
habitable houses and water infrastructure in Pomfret were demolished,
damaged and destroyed. Former 32Bn soldiers were intimidated, their war
medals "confiscated" (stolen?) and their SADF services certificates taken
from them. Personal items that were linked to their former status as
soldiers were also taken.
The court order brings the recent evictions and demolitions, which coincided
with the ANC’s “celebrations of the battle of Cuito Cuanavale”, to an end
pending further court action. Indications are that a considerable SAPS force
is ready at the nearby Bray to continue in their support of the State’s
vandalism operations.
Judged by the highly emotional ANC response on a motion about the people of
Pomfret in the North West Provincial Legislature on Tuesday 18th March 2008
it is clear that the role that 32Bn played in the Angolan War remains an
unforgiveable issue – even if only a small number of ex-combatants till
reside in Pomfret.
The DA will continue to support the Portuguese speeking South African
citizens who have been denied their rights for such a long time.
Chris Hattingh
Chris Hattingh - Provincial Leader – DA North West.
The DA in the North West today rejoices with the people of Pomfret in
celebrating a victory in the Supreme Court against the State after years of
intimidation and victimisation, followed by the recent weeks of intensified
pressure against the community and the forceful relocation of some
inhabitants to Mafikeng.
The recent weeks also were also characterised by state vandalism where
habitable houses and water infrastructure in Pomfret were demolished,
damaged and destroyed. Former 32Bn soldiers were intimidated, their war
medals "confiscated" (stolen?) and their SADF services certificates taken
from them. Personal items that were linked to their former status as
soldiers were also taken.
The court order brings the recent evictions and demolitions, which coincided
with the ANC’s “celebrations of the battle of Cuito Cuanavale”, to an end
pending further court action. Indications are that a considerable SAPS force
is ready at the nearby Bray to continue in their support of the State’s
vandalism operations.
Judged by the highly emotional ANC response on a motion about the people of
Pomfret in the North West Provincial Legislature on Tuesday 18th March 2008
it is clear that the role that 32Bn played in the Angolan War remains an
unforgiveable issue – even if only a small number of ex-combatants till
reside in Pomfret.
The DA will continue to support the Portuguese speeking South African
citizens who have been denied their rights for such a long time.
Chris Hattingh