National Rastafari March against Police Brutality in Azania (RSA)

Mr. J Zuma, Hon. President,
Mr. N Nathewa, Hon. Minister of Police,
The government and people of South Africa,
The brethren and sistren of the Rastafarian movement,

The Rastafarian community of the world has received with great shock and sadness the news that a veteran Rastafarian, Champion J. Nhlapo of the Marcus Garvey community of Philippi, was shot at by police and passed away on April 15th, 2010, while committing no reported crime, only verbally protecting the human rights of female members and children of the community. I and I of the international Rastafari community share the grief of I and I brethren and sistren in Azania, and will pray for Rastafari strength and guidance during this difficult Iwa.

It has also come to our attention that Rastafarians of Azania (South Africa) have taken up a collective initiative to address the untimely passing of Champion J. Nhlapo, and related human rights issues of right to life, right to security of person and property, and right to freedom of religion and worship. It is our wish to extend our moral and spiritual support to the Rastafarians of Azania (South Africa) in their pursuit of equal rights and justice for the Rastafari community.

The Rastafari community globally requests all concerned members of the government of South Africa to address the grievances of the Rastafarians with swiftness and humanity. I and I also encourage Mr. Nathewa, Hon. Minister of Police, and Mr. Zuma, Hon. President of South Africa to receive the Rastafarians, and all members of society to engage and reason with the Rastafarians so mutual understanding and respect can be achieved, through education and awareness about Rastafarian worship practices and culture. The Rastafari faith is now counted as one of the large global religions, and the South African Rastafarian community is a large and vibrant component of it.

I and I take this opportunity to send divine peace and love in the name of HIM Emperor Haile Sellassie I to all our beloved Rastafarians, as well as all our esteemed peoples of South Africa! Hoping and praying for a good resolution of all issues,