The IFP wishes to extend its heartfelt condolences to King Goodwill Zwelithini, the Zulu royal family and the family of the 15-year-old girl who passed away during the annual Royal Reed Dance in KwaNongoma on Saturday.
The IFP's thoughts and prayers are with the families during this sad and difficult time. Furthermore, the IFP wishes the 11 women who were seriously injured in the stampede at the Enyokeni royal residence all the best and a speedy recovery.
The cultural heritage of the Zulu people expressed through the annual Reed Dance, uMkhosi woMhlanga, teaches young women to have pride in their womanhood, while playing a critical role in the fight against HIV and Aids. It is therefore imperative that the authorities and the organisers of the event have improved and more stringent security measures in place at next year's festival, so that we can protect the young maidens who take part in this rich cultural ceremony.
Whilst the IFP applauds the SAPS for stepping up security measures by deploying extra police officers, members of the intelligence unit, and the National Intervention Unit as well as public-order police officers at this year's event, it was not sufficient to protect all the participants. We therefore call for a full and urgent investigation to be completed so that we prevent a similar tragedy from repeating itself in future. I thank you. [Applause.]