Makhura condemns ‘unacceptable’ Tembisa protest
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has called on protesting residents of Tembisa not to resort to violence when airing their grievances.
The ongoing protests in the area turned deadly on Monday after two people were shot and killed, allegedly at the hands of police.
Angry residents in Hospital View barricaded roads and torched several properties in protest against the recently implemented municipal tariff increases, which kicked in on 1 July.
The destructive protest, which began on Sunday evening, was sparked by a community meeting in which residents expected to be briefed by Mayor Tania Campbell. However, Campbell delegated members of the mayoral council to attend on her behalf.
In a statement, Makhura said the acts of criminality undermine the genuine concerns raised by communities.
“We acknowledge that residents have the democratic right to express their grievances. However, communities must express their grievances in a responsible and constructive manner. The violent and destructive nature of these protests is unacceptable.”
The premier has called on law enforcement to restore stability, and apprehend perpetrators of the violence.
“We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, our thoughts are with them. We call on law enforcement agencies to protect lives and property, and to bring the perpetrators of this violence and anarchy to book.”
At the same time, residents have vowed to continue protesting until they have been addressed by the mayor.
Makhura also called on Campbell to meet with community leaders at the forefront of the so-called “Tembisa shutdown”.
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