I have noted President Zuma's decision to establish a Commission of Inquiry to probe the violent confrontation between striking mine workers and police at the Lonmin mine in the North West on Thursday, which left so many South Africans dead or injured.

The Marikana massacre represents a dark day in our nation's history.

The IFP welcomes this inquiry with the hope that it will help us uncover the whole truth, so that those responsible for this senseless violence can be held responsible for their actions.

It is my hope that the Lonmin tragedy will be a wake-up call to those in power. South Africa's rampant poverty and inequality have formed the basis for brewing tensions within our society, which should not be underestimated and which can no longer be ignored.

Moreover, when in a democratic country such as ours, with one of the most progressive Constitutions, people feel that disputes can only be resolved through violence, we should be asking serious questions about the state of our fledgling democracy. It is my hope, that through the inquiry we will not only derive the necessary answers but learn tough lessons.

While we continue to mourn this sad day in South Africa's history, I wish to extend on behalf of the IFP, our sincerest condolences to the loved ones, families, relatives and friends of those who have lost their lives. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.