AU condemns ‘murder’ of unarmed black man by US police James Karuhanga

The African Union on Friday, May 29, strongly condemned the murder of George Floyd, 46, that occurred in the United States at the hands of law enforcement officers.
 By

James Karuhanga

Floyd died at the hospital late on Monday this week after a white police officer, knelt on his neck for
several minutes as Floyd moaned and yelled: "I can't breathe."

 

A video of the incident which has gone viral globally, shows Floyd pleading with police.

 

Floyd then eventually appears motionless as the officer's knee remains on his neck.

 

In a statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, condemned the incident and extended his condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones.

The AU statement recalls the historic Organisation of Africa Unity (OAU) Resolution on Racial Discrimination in the United States of America made by African Heads of State and Government, at the OAU’s First Assembly Meeting held in Cairo, Egypt, from 17 to 24 July 1964.
"The Chairperson of the African Union Commission firmly reaffirms and reiterates the African Union’s rejection of the continuing discriminatory practices against Black citizens of the United States of America," reads part of the statement.

"He further urges the authorities in the United States of America to intensify their efforts to ensure the total elimination of all forms of discrimination based on race or ethnic origin."
Floyd was arrested Monday in Minneapolis, Minnesota after reportedly attempting to use a counterfeit $20 bill at a supermarket there.
Video footage on social media showed him handcuffed and cooperating. But police claim he resisted arrest.
Four Minneapolis officers have reportedly been fired after the death of Floyd, who died after being pinned down by a white officer.
It is reported that after the third night of violent protests over the death of the unarmed black man in police custody, demonstrators have set fire to a police station as anger mounted after his death.

jkaruhanga@newtimesrwanda.com

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