Government appeals for calm and protest within the ambit of law

17 January 2023

Government acknowledges the frustration of South Africans, due to a combination of factors, which led to sporadic protests that occurred yesterday in parts of the country. Government is appealing for calm.  

Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele, said: “Government is alive to the issues related to the delivery of basic services, and calls for concerns to be raised in a peaceful and legitimate platform. During this difficult period, citizens, business, organised labour, wider social formations and government need to pull together to overcome the current challenges. We are a resilient nation and will overcome these difficulties that afflict us.”

The Constitution guarantees the rights of citizens to embark on protests. However, it must be done responsibly and within the confines of the law. The destruction of property and the infringement of the rights of others cannot be tolerated.  Such acts of destruction similarly add to our woes as at times they destroy the very infrastructure which is needed to allow the economy to grow.

“The South African Police Services and law enforcement agencies will act against those who violate the law.  Communities must allow the police to do their job, without any interference", added Gungubele. 

Government has also noted videos and commentary on social media that presents South Africa out of context and paints an erroneous image of the country. These videos are deceptive and have the potential to adversely harm the country. “We all have a role to play to improve our country, and these harmful social media posts serve individual interests and not that of improving our beautiful country. Let us play our part in building our country by exercising our democratic rights responsibly”, concluded Gungubele.

Enquiries: 
Michael Currin (GCIS : Acting Director General - 082 462 7896)
Nonceba Mhlauli (MLO  to Minister Mondli Gungubele - 072 623 3462)