South Africa (Press, 29 March 1969)
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Summary: South Africa (Press, 29 March 1969)
A letter to the editor of "The Press," dated 23 March 1969, from Peter C. Higham, criticises the publication for its focus on South Africa while ignoring severe human rights violations occurring in other countries. Higham argues that Russia is oppressing nations such as Ukraine, Latvia, Estonia, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia through violent force and systematic liquidation. He also cites reports of Nigeria's military killing around 7,000 Biafrans daily, and mentions a shocking incident involving Nigerian troops allegedly killing and even roasting children. Additionally, Higham refers to the brutal massacres in Zanzibar, where at least 12,000 individuals are said to have been killed, and men have reportedly been tortured through forced homosexual acts with soldiers. He highlights that a reign of terror continues in both Zanzibar and Pemba, asserting that despite these acts, "The Press" has not advocated for the exclusion of Russia, Nigeria, or Tanzania from the Olympic Games. Higham’s contention is that if certain brutal actors, such as murderers and cannibals, seek support, they can find it in "The Press." His letter points to a perceived inconsistency in how these nations are treated in international discourse compared to South Africa. The letter was sent to Lieutenant-Colonel A. C. R. Elderton of the Aid Rhodesia Movement, who forwarded it to "The Press" with a note asking for its return if it was not published, indicating the sensitivity of the issue and Higham's determination to ensure the letter reaches its audience. The editorial staff at "The Press" decided to print the letter along with Elderton’s note, presenting it as a reflection of the concerns expressed by Higham regarding media coverage and the selectivity in addressing human rights abuses globally.
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