By Ireen Mseteka:
The Likoma Island Festival (LiFE) Organising Team has suspended ongoing negotiations with a South African music artist who was being considered for participation in the upcoming festival as a gesture of solidarity with immigrants facing xenophobia in South Africa.
According to a statement released by the festival organisers on Thursday, the decision was made in response to reports of xenophobic attacks, illegitimate removals, discrimination, violence and exclusion affecting immigrants communities in South Africa.
“While every country has the right to manage immigration matters, such processes should be conducted lawfully, professionally and with full respect for human rights and human dignity,” reads the statement.
The statement further noted that South Africa has established institutions responsible for handling immigration issues and that these structures should be allowed to carry out their mandate.
LiFE emphasised that the move should not be viewed as a condemnation of the artist involved or the people of South Africa, but rather as a call for greater protection of immigrants’ rights and promotion of constructive dialogue on justice, human dignity and peaceful coexistence.
“As a platform that celebrates cultural diversity and African unity, the Likoma Island Festival remains committed to solidarity with vulnerable communities and to promoting equality, respect and inclusiveness,” reads part of the statement.
The organisers said they will continue monitoring developments and remain open to future engagement when circumstances align with the festival’s values and principles.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA), LIFE Executive Director, Patrick Chikoti said the name of the artist has not been disclosed out of respect as it is not the artist’s personal problem that has resulted into the suspension of the discussions.
