Mayor condemns N3 freeway blockage by local artists

ETHEKWINI Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has condemned, what he called, the unruly behaviour by local artists who blocked the N3 freeway, yesterday (2 September), causing a disturbance to the traffic flow and inconvenience to road users for more than three hours.  

It is alleged that the artists were calling for the opening up of the creative sector under the current lockdown level 2 so that the entertainment sector can also benefit.

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According to Metro Police, about 30 protesters were arrested in the blockade. 

Earlier this week, Tansnat bus drivers, a company operating buses for the City, blockaded roads with buses which resulted in traffic grinding to a halt during rush hour. 

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“As Mayor of the city, I wish to denounce the unlawful conduct of blockading of roads to resolve matters. We understand that various sectors and industries have been hard hit economically by the Covid-19 global pandemic, but the unruly actions and acts of economic sabotage will not be tolerated and those who go against the law will be brought to book,” said Kaunda. 

He said the government was aware that the economy is severely strained and he implored the public to exercise patience during the difficult time as the country works towards recovering the economy. 

“As a democratic government, our doors remain open to discuss issues affecting our residents. Most importantly, we respect the right of people to embark on peaceful protests. What we will not tolerate is anarchy and blockading of roads which puts a further strain on our ailing economy,” said Kaunda.   

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting

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