Share

Methodist church slams pre-election violence

Cape Town – The Methodist Church of Southern Africa has called on faith leaders to become the voices of reason after the spate of elections-related violence in the country.

Bishop Ziphozihle Siwa said in a statement the church had observed with growing alarm the rapid spread of pre-election violence, the senseless destruction of property and the reckless crescendo of ethnic, tribal slurs. 

“The culture of wanton destruction and violence during protests seems to be taking root in our country as the only ‘voice’ that is listened to and thought to bring about a rapid response from Government.  

"This is misguided and totally unacceptable,” he said,

He said people of faith should not tolerate the public discourse degenerating into tribalism, factionalism and anarchy nor play any part in stoking the fires of destruction.  

“We urge all ministers of the Methodist Church to provide leadership, counselling and guidance at this crucial time. The destruction of property is wrong, unacceptable and all culprits should be brought to book.”

He called on people of faith to act as the voices and ears of peace and reason to avert further violence and extra-judicial killings in the six weeks left to the elections.

The Methodist church also called on all political party leaders to act responsibly and not make inflammatory statements.

“We plead with any political leaders who might not be in office after the elections to refrain from inciting others to violence in their desire to remain in positions of power.”

Violence broke out this week in Tshwane, following the announcement of the mayoral candidate.

Five people died, and dozens were arrested.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Do you think corruption-accused National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula will survive a motion of no confidence against her?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
No, her days are numbered
41% - 538 votes
Yes, the ANC caucus will protect her
59% - 769 votes
Vote
Rand - Dollar
18.89
+0.3%
Rand - Pound
23.82
+0.4%
Rand - Euro
20.37
+0.3%
Rand - Aus dollar
12.30
+0.3%
Rand - Yen
0.12
+0.3%
Platinum
908.05
0.0%
Palladium
1,014.94
0.0%
Gold
2,232.75
-0.0%
Silver
24.95
-0.1%
Brent Crude
87.00
+1.8%
Top 40
68,346
0.0%
All Share
74,536
0.0%
Resource 10
57,251
0.0%
Industrial 25
103,936
0.0%
Financial 15
16,502
0.0%
All JSE data delayed by at least 15 minutes Iress logo
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE