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Cosatu has strongly condemned the assassination of Sheikh Yassin
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March 23, 2004, 10:00
The killing of Sheik Ahmed Yassin, the spiritual leader of Hamas, was proof that the Israeli regime would stop at nothing to deny self-determination to Palestinians, the Congress of SA Trade Union (Cosatu) said today.
Patrick Craven, the Union's spokesperson, said Cosatu "totally condemns the brutal and calculated assassination of Yassin by the Israeli armed forces". The murder of the spiritual leader of Hamas, carried out under the personal order of prime minister Sharon, is further proof that the Israeli regime will stop at nothing to deny self-determination, democracy and human rights to the Palestinian people," Craven said in a statement.
He said Yassin's assassination took place as South Africans commemorated Human Rights Day and the anniversary of the Sharpeville massacre. "Like Sharpeville, the murder of Yassin, a leader with wide popular support, will be a turning point in the Palestinian people's struggle for independence and human rights.
"It will only strengthen the resolve of the people to intensify the fight, increase support for their cause around the world and make their victory more certain." Cosatu sent its condolences to the people of Palestine, he said.
"We demand the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Palestinian territories, the destruction of the 'apartheid wall' and the recognition of Palestine as an independent sovereign state."
The Media Review Network said in a statement today it was shocked and angered at the assassination of Yassin. It urged all role players, including the government, NGOs, religious bodies and political parties to "denounce this criminal Israeli act unreservedly. "We further demand the cutting of all ties with Israel, this arrogant and destructive cancer, in whatever form." - Sapa
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