Government warns anti-Zuma protesters
The government has warned protesters demonstrating against President Jacob Zuma that police will crack down on illegal actions.
“Government assures all South Africans that Friday‚ 7th April‚ is a normal working day. We have noted social media messages which call for a shutdown of the country on Friday‚” the government communications unit GCIS tweeted on Monday night.“The call made in these messages can have unexpected consequences especially for our fragile economy‚ business and communities. Whilst the public has a democratic right to embark on protest action‚ government does not support acts of civil disobedience.”
The GCIS warning comes after a social media campaign called on South Africans to take to the streets on Friday to urge Zuma to step down. Anti-Zuma sentiment has been growing since the president’s cabinet reshuffle last week‚ which booted out respected finance minister Pravin Gordhan and his deputy Mcebisi Jonas.
“When citizens take to the streets illegally‚ we often witness violence‚ destruction of property and lawlessness. These illegal protests do not possess the characteristics of strengthening democracy‚” GCIS tweeted.
“Those found guilty of any form of violence will face the might of the law. Government is of the view that SAns can engage each other on differences through meaningful dialogue and through appropriate platforms.”
CivilSociety organizations, business & society at large are encouraged to work with Gov in strengthening our democracy to create a better SA— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) 3 April 2017
The social media messages are sent to disturb the economy and to create the impression of disorder and fear in communities.— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) 3 April 2017
The social media messages are sent to bring the image of SA into disrepute— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) 3 April 2017
Those found guilty of any form of violence will face the might of the law.— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) 3 April 2017