SACCI: Violent protests not a right
While the right to protest is recognised, intimidation, destroying infrastructure, schools, and clinics is not an inherent right when protesting, the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) said.
"South Africa desperately needs both domestic and foreign direct investment to enhance economic growth so as to create jobs and to eliminate poverty and inequality," Sacci said in a statement.
"Protest action accompanied by arson, intimidation, and threats against life mitigate against investment decisions being taken."
Sacci called on all protesters to consider the consequences of their actions.
The chamber also called on social partners -- business, government, labour, and communities -- to draw attention to the undesirable consequences of violent protests.
Security services needed to apprehend perpetrators to discourage unconstitutional behaviour.
The increase in the number of protests in South Africa was concerning, particularly that South Africa was being dubbed the "protest capital of the world", Sacci said.
