Picture: LUCA SOLA/AFP
Faizel Patel – 11/07/2021
President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the acts of violence being perpetrated across the country.
The president was addressing the nation on Sunday night on the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, during his speech he also addressed what he called a matter of national importance.
The unrest is believed to be linked to the imprisonment of Jacob Zuma with demonstrators in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng demanding the former president be released from prison.
Ramaphosa says key infrastructure like national roads have been affected, slowing down the transportation of goods and services that keep the economy running.
“Property has been destroyed. Cars have been stoned. People have been intimidated and threatened, and some have even been hurt. These acts are endangering lives and damaging our efforts to rebuild the economy.”
Ramaphosa says South Africa will not tolerate acts of criminality.
“Those who are involved in acts of violence will be arrested and prosecuted. Those found guilty of breaking the lockdown regulations will receive the stipulated penalty. This will be done without fear or favour.”
Ramaphosa also condemned attempts to create confusion by sharing false images and videos, often from events that took place many years ago.
“I ask that you think carefully before sharing anything on social media or elsewhere that may not be accurate or verified.”
Ramaphosa says it is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.
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