Mbeki warns terrorists

2002-11-30 14:59

Johannesburg - South Africa in its capacity as chair of the African Union expresses its strongest condemnation of the terrorist attacks in Mombasa, Kenya, on Thursday 28 November, and the subsequent loss of life.

In a statement released on Saturday, the foreign affairs department said Africa stoo united against the scourge of international terrorism.

"This is manifested in the AU convention on the prevention and combating of terrorism that will come into force during December 2002 after the 15th country, Ghana, recently deposited its instrument of ratification," the statement said.

It also referred to the inter-governmental meeting on terrorism in Algiers during September, where it was decided to formulate a protocol.

"Development on the African Continent, based on the principles that guide the AU and Nepad, can only be achieved in conditions of peace and in a climate of political, social and economic stability, and in this respect terrorism constitutes an impediment to the full enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms of humankind," Mbeki said in the statement.

"Therefore it is imperative to protect human rights and individual liberties in conformity with the principles enshrined in international instruments, in particular the right to life," he added.

"The AU will not tolerate acts of terror of this nature on this continent and commits itself to working closely with the international community and in particular Kenya in order to bring the perpetrators of these acts to justice.

" The AU wishes to reassure the citizens of the continent and the international community that through the activities of the union, Africa will remain a continent committed to the global war against terrorism and to ensure the safety of all on the continent."

Mbeki concluded by expressing condolences with the governments and people of Kenya, Israel as well as members of the bereaved families.

- SAPA