VIDEO: Disappointing Durban turnout for #SmokersUniteSA protest against cigarette ban

FEWER than a dozen smokers arrived early on Wednesday, 8 July, to show their discontent for the government’s ban on the sale of tobacco products.

The smokers left from the rooftop parking of The Pavilion Shopping Centre to take part in a slow drive convoy along the N3 to the Durban High Court.

Queensburgh resident, Dwayne Robinson, helped to organise the Durban protest as a member of the Let Our Voices Be Heard SA group.

The members are calling for the regulations prohibiting cigarette sales to be lifted.

Other cities have also planned similar action.

ALSO READ: Nationwide protest against cigarette ban set for Wednesday

Westville resident, Vanessa Kelley said she was tired of the ban.

The national Covid-19 Command Council banned the sale of tobacco products late in March.

“I am taking part in this just to let the government know that we are tired of their nonsense.  Alcohol kills more than cigarettes do. So why can we have alcohol and not cigarettes?” asked Kelley.

ALSO READ: Lockdown lowdown with Durban skateboarder

The smokers said they were angry that the regulations had criminalised them, as most are now illegally sourcing cigarettes.

Parker, a Queensburgh resident, added  he was disappointed at the small turnout.

“I had these banners made especially for this protest and expected way more people to be here, but we will carry on regardless,” said Subashan Pillay who had travelled from Phoenix to be at the 7am start.

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