AfriForum’s Overstrand branch approaches Human Rights Commission during riots
The civil rights organisation AfriForum’s Overstrand branch requested the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to act as intermediator in order to defuse the riots currently taking place in Zwelihle, Hermanus.
“Government already in 2005 promised the community of Zwelihle housing. After it recently came to light that only a small percentage of the housing that was made available will be available to local residents, the residents made known their discontent with an initial peaceful march to the municipal offices, after which riots broke out,” says Deon de Jager, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for the Western Cape.
Thomas van Dalen, AfriForum’s Training Manager for Community Safety, directed a request to Chris Nissen, Human Rights Commissioner, when he realised that the Municipal Council and Municipality had no further intention to communicate with the community of Zwelihle or to make any other attempt to defuse the situation.
Nissen held talks with, amongst others, the Mayor and municipal officials, while he also addressed approximately 4 000 people in Zwelihle last night, after which emotions considerably calmed down. Talks will today continue to try and find a relevant solution. AfriForum will continuously monitor the situation.
Become involved at your local AfriForum neighbourhood or farm watch: SMS “Veiligheid” to 45351 (R1).
