ETHEKWINI acting mayor, Fawzia Peer has condemned the protest action which took place in the city on Thursday and ended in violent clashes between police and protestors.
Chaos reigned in the CBD as pro-Gumede supporters called for the resignation of city manager, Sipho Nzuza and for the ruling party to reinstate criminally-charged Zandile Gumede to her mayoral position.
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Their protest shut down Dr Pixley Ke Seme Road to traffic as they harrassed and threatened muncipal staff at various city buildings, urging them to leave work or risk being locked in the buildings.
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“The behaviour of protesters is deplorable because the city was forced not to render services to its residents because our workers were intimidated. No matter how serious the grievances may be, this is unacceptable. This anarchy is unnecessary. The issue of our mayor is handled by the leadership of her political organisation and it has pronounced in that regard and that must be respected. It is an insult to our stake-holders who are expecting us to render services at all times,” said Peer.
Metro police used stun grenades to disperse the unruly crowd which turned violent and arrested 22 people for alleged public violence.
In the melee, journalists who were filming and reporting on the protest were also manhandled by police.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Journalists caught up in violent protests over Durban Mayor
In a media statement on Friday, Peer said the city subscribed to media freedom and at all times and would do everything in its power to support members of the profession.
The Mercury reported on Friday that the city had obtained an interim interdict to stop protestors from protesting and intimidating residents and city employees. Peer said the city would now explore legal avenues to clamp down on violent protests.
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