SA in UN Rape Resolution Row

In an article published by the Mail & Guardian entitled " SA responds to US in UN rape resolution row ":
" South African diplomats have expressed shock at strong United States government criticism of the country's stance over a United Nations resolution, introduced by the US, that condemns rape by governments and military formations. "
( Read full article ....)

" In an article in the New York Times on Thursday, the US accused South Africa of obstructing an American-drafted General Assembly resolution that would specifically condemn rape and sexual abuse used by governments and armed groups to achieve political and military objectives.

While the resolution does not mention any countries by name, the Bush administration has cited accusations that rape is being employed by soldiers and militia members as a tactic for intimidation and warfare, notably in Sudan and Burma."

The South Africans state: "We are objecting to the resolution because it is politicised and singles out clear categories of rape. We want a resolution that is non-politicised and that looks at rape in a holistic manner in all its situations, including rape by soldiers in detention centres and in situations of foreign occupation."

On Friday, South Africa's ambassador to the United Nations, Dumisani Kumalo, echoed Sangqu's comments.

"As usual our US colleagues are being very disingenuous, because what they were trying to get us to do is to support a resolution only condemning rape by military and government institutions. We are saying we want to condemn rape in all its forms," said Kumalo, who is currently in South Africa.
Rape is rape. We don't want rape to be dealt with selectively. It is a cruel and despicable crime. We said rape should be condemned in all its manifestations, that it does not matter if it's perpetrated by governments or individuals. The Africa group within the United Nations introduced our amendments. It was Angola who actually introduced them. "

I am sure that we all agree, Mr Kumalo, on the general condemnation of rape. We are painfully aware of it in this country (and of the Government's lack of success in remedying the situation). However, it seems to me that the United Nations are trying to pass a law that actually holds governments responsible in those political / military cases, and not just the individuals who perpetrate it.

I feel that, not unusually, the South African Government is trying to duck responsibilty for actions of its representatives, hiding behind a barrage of noble-sounding sentiments, while they continue to flounder ineffectively.