BREAKING NEWS – ANC Lim expresses concern over Westenburg protest

The African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo has expressed concern over the protest action by residents of Westenburg. The structure also strongly appealed to communities across the province to desist from engaging in violent protest whenever they have genuine concerns to raise.
In a statement issued yesterday (Thursday) evening, ANC Provincial Secretary Soviet Lekganyane reiterated their support for all residents of South Africa to exercise their right to protest on any issue constituting a grievance. “In the many decades the ANC spent in trenches fighting for liberation, at the core of our struggles was the need for all our people to gain a dignified, decent life and appropriate service. To this day, as we manage our municipalities, provision of quality service to our communities remains our target objective. Our municipalities are under a direct and strict order to provide quality service.
“We, however do not support any quest to exercise a right to protest in a violent manner as witnessed at Westenburg in the past two days. There is no justification in the destruction of public property, including burning of Police vehicle(s), as happened (in) the past two days. Whilst it is important for communities to raise their grievances with authorities, we must be vigilant not to allow thugs to hijack our gatherings and turn them into ugly scenes of property destruction.”
He expressed confidence that all parties would rise to the occasion and amicably and timely resolve the impasse. Lekganyane further said they supported the measures that were being taking towards finding a long lasting solution on matters raised by the Westenburg community.
“The ANC makes a strong appeal to all our communities in the province to desist from engaging in violent protest whenever they have genuine concerns to raise. We call upon our people to use all available avenues to raise their concerns.”
In the meantime Polokwane Municipality made available an audio clip following Polokwane Executive Mayor Thembi Nkadimeng’s meeting with the community of Westenburg that was halted yesterday.

Story & photo: YOLANDE NEL
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