FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10 JULY 2021

ANC CALLS FOR CALM AND STABILITY IN KWAZULU-NATAL

The African National Congress (ANC) is concerned by the ongoing violence that is gripping some parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The destruction of property and infrastructure and looting accompany these violent protests must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

The ANC recognises and respects the rights of every South African to protest peacefully and unarmed and freely to express their views on any matter of concern. However, in exercising their constitutional rights, citizens must respect the rights of others and refrain from breaking the law or using violence.
In a constitutional democracy any matters of concern must be expressed through peaceful and legitimate channels.

We are concerned that the destruction of property and impeding the functioning of the economy will undermine efforts to create jobs and improve the lives of citizens.

The ANC has instructed the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) of KwaZulu-Natal and NEC (National Executive Committee) deployees to KZN, to intervene immediately and engage our structures and all relevant stakeholders. Bringing peace and stability to affected areas is a priority for the ANC and the democratic movement.

The ANC urges law-enforcement agencies to act firmly and expeditiously, within the law, against any form of lawlessness, public violence, damage to property and disruption of economic activity and service delivery.

We wish to commend the police for doing their best to deal with an extremely difficult and volatile situation.

END

ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS

Enquiries:
Pule Mabe
National Spokesperson
071 623 4975