The government has only itself to blame for the violence against and attacks on foreigners.

The government has only itself to blame for the violence against and attacks on foreigners.

The root cause of the violence is the government's failure to deal effectively with border control and the massive influx of foreigners. It is surprising that it blames a third force.

South Africa has the most illegal immigrants in the SADC region. Such an influx automatically precipitates intense competition for scarce resources such as housing and jobs. This eventually leads to violence.

The communal conflict in Alexandra, Diepsloot and elsewhere is a symptom of anarchy and a response to close the power vacuum left by centralised authority.

This happens all over the world when governments lose control. It is the rational response of people who feel marginalised after having tried all other avenues. They believe the only way to vent their anger is through violence.

It is strange that the government claims the carnage is due to criminality, when people in Alex say it is due to frustration and deprivation.

To resolve the conflict the government must acknowledge the root causes of housing, jobs and so on

Create an environment conducive to facilitating dialogue, not violence.

Lucky Ledwaba, Johannesburg