South African President Jacob Zuma, has urged leaders to stand up against inhumane treatment of fellow Africans in Libya.
”We cannot stand idle without condemning such actions in the strongest possible terms.”
President Zuma was speaking during the 5th African Union-European Union Summit taking place in Cote d’Ivoire.
”As we gather here we are also haunted by images of many of our Continent’s citizens plunged in the watery grave of the Mediterranean and the scenes of a slave trade continuing on this very continent.”
”These African migrants are often ransomed to their families and until ransoms can be paid, they are tortured, forced to work, and eventually executed or left to starve. Women are used as sex slaves and child migrants also suffer abuse and rape.”
Zuma said there is need to act decisively and support the Libyan Government of National Accord to address this human tragedy and eradicate the scourge of modern day slavery, exploitation and forced labour, currently unfolding in front of our eyes.
“The footage of human beings being auctioned off by other human beings has shone fresh light on the horrific plight of those trapped in Libya. But none of the leaders meeting in Abidjan should feign surprise.” said John Dalhuisen, Regional Director for Europe at Amnesty International.
Shocking footage of a slave auction of migrants in Libya released by CNN has triggered condemnation across the globe.
