Xenophobic attacks in SA “ungodly” – Christian Council

The Christian Council of Ghana has condemned the ongoing xenophobic attacks in South Africa, describing it as “ungodly.”

The Council said it “is deeply saddened and concerned” about the happenings in the Rainbow Nation against African migrants and their businesses.

“This unwarranted and barbaric attack on fellow Africans, which has led to scores of deaths and loss of properties, should be condemned by all in no uncertain terms,” Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, General Secretary of the CCG said in a statement.

“The ongoing attacks are extremely worrying, especially at a time when Africans are seeking to have an integrated, united, sovereign, independent, confident and self-reliant continent through ‘The Africa We-Want-Agenda 2063’ which is currently being championed by the African Union (AU).

“The attacks, therefore, should engage the minds of our leaders to passionately pursue people-centred development that will address livelihoods challenges such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, poor infrastructure, poor health services, access to educational facilities and corruption, which greatly affects our citizens.

“The Council further pleads with other African countries whose nationals have been affected by the attack not to retaliate by attacking anything South African in their respective countries. A counter attack will further bleed the continent and undermine efforts towards African unity,” the statement added.

It continued: “We urge the South African government and the leadership of AU to quickly put a stop to the attacks and restore peace in the affected cities. The South African government should also develop a compensation and rehabilitation system to support victims of this heinous attack.

“It is our prayer that, the good Lord will have mercy on Africa and unite us in peace, love and prosperity. We also pray for the victims and their families, that God will heal and comfort them in these trying moments in Jesus’ name.”