Zuma: I'm studying Marikana report

President Jacob Zuma confirmed yesterday that the report of the Farlam Commission into the shooting of miners at Marikana contains "very clear findings and recommendations".

Speaking in reply to questions in the National Council of Provinces, Zuma said: "This is an important report which needs careful consideration so that the findings and the recommendations can be used to ensure that such an incident does not happen again."

But Zuma would not respond to questions about the future of Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega, who is believed to be criticised by the report. "I'm not going to indulge in speculation.

"The report will be released to the public as soon as I have completed processing the findings and recommendations. I have received the report and I'm looking at the report. I'm not talking about loose talk in the streets."

Pressed for when he would release the report, he said: "I cannot give a date. I'm reading the report. As soon as I have finished reading the report, looking at the recommendations, I will release the report and give my attitude to the recommendations."

Meanwhile, Zuma also said Southern African countries were very positive about the steps South Africa has taken to combat xenophobia, and European countries were very sympathetic.

He said the recent extraordinary meeting of the Southern African Development Community in Harare had required him to report back on the steps South Africa had taken.

"South African diplomats also briefed their host countries, and the government briefed overseas diplomats in this country. South Africa will brief diplomats again if necessary. We are very thankful for the understanding manner in which countries have received South African steps in this regard," Zuma said. - Additional reporting by RDM