The Inter-ministerial Committee on the Marikana tragedy has maintained its presence in Marikana on Thursday, 23 August 2012 and attended the memorial service in support of the bereaved families and workers.
The memorial service started out peacefully until it unfortunately degenerated into a party political platform. The event lost its purpose and desecrated the memory of the departed who were supposed to be remembered in dignity.
The presence of the committee adequately demonstrated government's empathy and commitment to assist the bereaved families. Government support continues. After the memorial service, the committee visited the bereaved families in Marikana to pay their respects.
Government will continue to maintain a presence in the area until all families have been provided with the necessary support and assistance required.
Government continues to call on all involved not to use the plight of those who lost their loved ones for petty political gains. This is a trying time for the bereaved families and the country. We urge all parties to play a constructive role and support the nation in the process of healing.
