Your report, Fiendish Farmers on March 16, disturbed me very much. I cannot believe that there are still farmers in this country who resort to racist violence, abuse and beatings of their farm workers.

Your report, Fiendish Farmers on March 16, disturbed me very much. I cannot believe that there are still farmers in this country who resort to racist violence, abuse and beatings of their farm workers.

The Human Rights Commission, after completing its countrywide hearings, must file criminal cases against these perpetrators and help farm victims seek relief for unfair labour practice.

There is no reason not to take action against farmers who commit gross human rights abuses and who subject workers to unfair working conditions. It is common knowledge that farm workers, their children and families are forced off the land by some farmers during winter and the festive season.

Despite this, farmers unions do not utter a word in defence of these workers. But they did not hesitate to fire a broadside attack on Agriculture and Land Affairs Minister, Lulu Xingwana, when she spoke about this unfair practice recently.

There is no doubt that the members of the union continue to make profits from the farms without any regard for the well-being and security of the farm workers.

Even so, the people of this country must not allow these farmers to hinder our land restitution process.

Morgan Phaahla, Ekurhuleni