JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE ruling African National Congress (ANC) has welcomed the probe into the xenophobic violence that broke out in South Africa earlier this year.

A committee the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces established to investigate incidences of violence against foreign nationals which happened earlier this year in various provinces has presented its report to the House.

“The Office of the ANC Chief Whip (Phumele Sizani) welcomes the adoption of the report of the joint ad hoc committee on probing violence against foreign nationals by the National Assembly,” said Spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo.

He noted the investigation of the committee confirmed that the violent attacks resulted in the tragic deaths of at least seven people, four foreign nationals and three South Africans.

“In the view of the committee, the levels of crime, inequality and competition for scarce resources negatively affected both locals and foreign nations,” said Mothapo.

According to the committee, many foreign nationals seeking asylum in the country were found to be economic migrants.

The increasing competition for scarce resources amidst low economic growth, unemployment and lack of skills amongst South Africans is accentuated by the high number of unskilled foreign nationals immigrating into the country.

It was noted competition and associated tensions amongst local and foreign small business owners, exploitation of illegal immigrants and violation of labour laws by local companies have been identified as some of the drivers of the violence that took place.

Mothapo reiterated the events of May dented the country’s image, and the ANC thus fully support various interventions to ensure that they do not repeat themselves.

“As the Majority Party in this Parliament, we will ensure that Parliament plays its oversight role to ensure all these critical interventions succeed.”

– CAJ News