CAPE TOWN, June 11 (ANA) – The Democratic Alliance on Sunday extended heartfelt condolences to the victims and families of those affected by the destructive fires still raging in the Eden district and Knysna.
The latest fatality was on Saturday when a 63-year-old man died in the fire at Concordia, Knysna, bringing the number of fatalities to six since the fires broke out in the area last week.
“Our hearts go out the families of all the victims,” DA Western Cape acting leader Bonginkosi Madikizela said.
“On Friday I received with sadness the news that a volunteer firefighter Bradley Richards died after suffering severe burns. He will be remembered for his service to his province and his country and I extend my deepest sympathies to his loved ones,” he said.
The DA also extended its support to the thousands of residents who were displaced because of the fires. Over 400 formal structures and 200 informal structures had been destroyed.
Despite the difficult conditions, various departments in the Western Cape government were working tirelessly to bring the fires under control and he thanked them, Madikizela said.
“I am also touched by communities and local businesses who have rallied together to collect emergency supplies for those in need. It’s clear that our people have a special spirit of humanity and ubuntu in these difficult times.
“I understand that it is important to determine the cause of these devastating fires. Yet, I want to urge communities to follow official communications and to avoid fake news that creates panic,” Madikizela said.
– African News Agency (ANA)
