Volatile protest in Nelson Mandela Bay over unhappiness with ward councillor

Residents of Kwazakhele in Port Elizabeth are up in arms over housing issues and are unhappy with their local ward councillor, leading to violent protests.

It is believed that the trouble began around two weeks ago when a man died in a shack fire, with the community saying he would not have died if they had been given proper housing.

Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge said since 5am on Monday, protesters had blockaded and burnt tyres at Njoli Road. Beetge said by 6.30am protesters had stoned an Algoa bus and by 8am another bus was completely torched.

“Public Order Policing (POPS) are in the area and trying to stabilise the situation. It’s very volatile at this point,” said Beetge.

According to a reliable source, two weeks ago negotiations got under way between community members and the Ward 18 councillor. However, residents were unhappy and burnt tyres outside her offices. On Friday, tyres were burnt outside the councillor’s home.

– African News Agency (ANA)