Torching of public infrastructure not a solution, says Maile
Gauteng Cooperative Governance MEC Lebogang Maile has hit out at what he believes to be the use of excessive force by police in protest-torn Tembisa.
Residents of Hospital View has been protesting against high electricity tariffs and poor service delivery in the area.
Two people were killed following clashes with police officers while two people died in a gas explosion when they attempted to bomb an ATM amid the protests.
“We condemn the use of excessive force to quell protest action, a right that is enshrined in our constitution,” Maile said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Equally, we condemn the violent nature of the protest, which led to the torching of public infrastructure.”
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Several municipal vehicles, including the municipal offices, have been torched with sporadic instances of looting also reported.
“Burning of tyres and torching of public infrastructure should not be seen as a solution, but an act of criminality.
“Our communities must raise their grievances in a peaceful manner and most importantly, create space for solution orientated engagements, as the destruction of infrastructure during protest action will only exacerbate the problem.”
Maile has also called on Ekurhuleni Mayor Tania Campbell to urgently engage the members of the community.
“We are prepared to step-in and provide support and required assistance, as part of our constitutional responsibilities as the custodians of local government in the province.”
