I am quite shocked to have learned that many Krugersdorpers did not really know what ‘Red Monday’s’ protest action was all about.
My telephone rang constantly all through the day, and most of the time the calls were from residents who wanted to know why Key West Shopping Centre and President Hyper, among others, were closed.
Some knew about the protest action, but were blissfully unaware of its seriousness.
One person really shocked me when I told her that drug dealing and human trafficking were the order of the day in that notorious part of Krugersdorp and that those who are closely affected had had enough. The person did not even know that Krugersdorp was considered a drug and human trafficking mecca. I was speechless and felt like a failure. Was I, the editor of this newspaper, not doing my job well enough for people to know what ‘Red Monday’ was all about?
The stories we write, the photos we take and the people we meet are sometimes not the norm. When I say ‘norm’, I mean that we know when our readers do not take interest. They get bored with hearing and reading about our town’s embarrassing issues all the time.
But yesterday was different. The protesters actually managed to shut down our town and forced the rest of us to listen.
I just really hope that everyone did, especially the authorities.
‘Red Monday’ was a very frightening day for us at the News, and I want to thank my journalist, Bianca Pindral, for putting her life on the line to make sure Krugersdorpers knew what was going on at all times.
To those who might still not know what is going on, please educate yourselves. It is for the good of yourselves, and the rest of Krugersdorp.
Knowledge is power, and ignorance is bliss. Which side are you on?
Until next week.
