Kathrada: We need real leadership to beat racism and xenophobia

For some reason, there is dogged resistance by the ANC and government against classifying the violence and looting in Soweto and other areas around Johannesburg as xenophobia. Although most of the looting was directed at foreign-owned shops and foreign nationals have fled the affected areas in fear of their lives, the attacks have been deemed "just criminality". ANC veteran and former Robben Island prisoner Ahmed Kathrada disagrees. "The attacks are xenophobic, and xenophobia is racism," Kathrada said. What's more, it is the ANC's responsibility to stand up against any form of racism in society, as it has done so decisively in the past. Kathrada spoke to RANJENI MUNUSAMY about this matter that troubles him deeply.