Pretoria - Government has expressed deep disappointment following incidents of looting and the destruction of property as a result of marches held in Pretoria on Wednesday.
“Government expresses its deep disappointment at the wanton looting and destruction of property by some party members, who took part in what were otherwise peaceful and democratic activities on Wednesday,” Acting Director General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Donald Liphoko said.
The behaviour showed by some of those participating in the marches, Liphoko said, detracted from the constructive democratic processes. This includes the acts of intimidation and violation of the rights of those who opted not to participate in marches or gatherings, said government on Wednesday evening.
“We re-emphasise that every person has the right to protest, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic. However this right comes with a responsibility to act within the ambit of the law and to respect the equal rights of other citizens not to protest” said Liphoko.
“Government welcomes today’s activities as an illustration of an active citizenry that is essential to any robust democracy. Organisers of marches should ensure that the unsightly scenes that we witnessed on the streets of our capital city do not recur. That kind of disregard for the laws of the country is not acceptable and will not be tolerated,” Liphoko said.
Government said it was extremely unfortunate that a section of the marchers disregarded the conditions of their authorisation to march by taking their protest to the Union Buildings.
“The march to the Union Buildings was not part of any application to march by any group. This behaviour is clearly not in line with the Regulation of Gatherings Act, which clearly states that conveners of a march must take the necessary steps to ensure gatherings and demonstrations proceed peacefully and that the gathering must take place where and during times specified in the notice.
“Such conduct shows a blatant and irresponsible disregard for the rule of law and social order,” Liphoko said.
The deviation by the marchers goes against the Constitution.
“Government encourages all citizens to utilise appropriate platforms, including authorised marches, to raise concerns and contribute to the narrative to strengthen the country’s democracy. South Africa has made unparalleled gains and as a nation, we should not allow or accept unruly behaviour that tramples upon the rights of other people,” said Liphoko. – SAnews.gov.za
