The Embassy of the State of Palestine in South Africa expressed its gratitude to South African political parties, solidarity organizations, and faith groups that have demonstrated unwavering support for the Palestinian cause over the past few days.
The embassy said in a statement that it is “profoundly grateful for the solidarity exhibited, a testament to the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela in South Africa, a nation known for its commitment to peace, justice, and human rights.”
A majority of South African political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC), the South African Communist Party (SACP), the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), in addition to solidarity organisations including Africa4Palestine, Al-Quds Foundation, Jamaitul Ulama, Palestine Solidarity Alliance (PSA), Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa (MJC), the South African BDS Coalition, and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) have issued powerful statements in support of Palestine.
The embassy thanked them for their solidarity, which reflects the shared values of justice, the right of nations to self-determination, and respect for human rights that unite the Palestinian and South African struggles.
The embassy also emphasized that Palestinians have the legitimate right to resist colonial and foreign occupation by all means available, as enshrined in international law.
“We call upon political parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA), the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) to reevaluate their policies and positions,” the embassy said. “We believe political parties should stand on the right side of history and support the just cause of Palestinians right to self-determination.”
The embassy concluded by saying that it looks forward to continued cooperation with its South African partners in the pursuit of peace, justice, and the realization of the rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of a viable Palestinian independent state.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS STATEMENT
9 October 2023
The Embassy of the State of Palestine commends the South African government, people, political parties, faith groups and solidarity organisations for their solidarity and calls for continued support for Palestinian rights. pic.twitter.com/u3jn65lnB2
— Embassy of the State of Palestine – South Africa (@PalEmbassyZa) October 9, 2023