KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has pledged to protect Durban from violent protests, stating that the city will not burn again while he holds office. Speaking at the 170th anniversary gala dinner of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ntuli emphasized the importance of safety and predictability in building investor confidence. The event was attended by eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba and President Cyril Ramaphosa. Ntuli's remarks come amid heightened tensions in the province due to ongoing anti-immigration protests.
The protests have resulted in violent incidents, including the torching of 14 vehicles, business closures, vandalism, and looting. Earlier this month, nearly two days of unrest brought back painful memories of July 2021, when over 354 people died in the most violent civil unrest in South Africa's democratic era. Ntuli acknowledged that old wounds were reopened and vowed to prevent a repeat of such incidents. He called on President Ramaphosa to deploy the army to restore and maintain law and order.
President Ramaphosa has authorized 510 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to remain in the province until November 30. The SANDF is deployed hand-in-hand with police to enforce the law under Operation Prosper. Ntuli had inherited an administration still struggling to restore confidence after the unrest of July 2021. He realized the importance of safety, predictability, and a responsive government in building investor confidence in the province.
Ntuli's partnership with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry aims to restore investor confidence in the province. The partnership was tested on October 8, when violence returned to Durban's streets. Ntuli thanked the business community for stepping up and finding ways to assist the government. He then made a declaration that such incidents would never recur while he was in office.
The violent incidents have had a significant impact on businesses in Durban. Traders have counted losses after the anti-immigration protests, and the provincial government is working to restore normalcy. Ntuli's vow to prevent a repeat of the protests has been met with relief from the business community and residents.
The deployment of the SANDF has been seen as a positive step towards restoring law and order in the province. The army's presence, combined with police efforts, aims to prevent further incidents of violence and looting. Ntuli's administration is working to address the underlying issues that led to the protests, including anti-immigration sentiments and economic concerns.
Ntuli's statement, "Ngeke kwenzeke" (It will not happen), reflects his commitment to preventing future incidents of violence in Durban. The provincial government, in collaboration with the business community and security forces, is working to ensure that Durban remains a safe and stable city. The goal is to protect the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on the city's economy.
Key points
- Premier Thami Ntuli has vowed to prevent a repeat of violent protests in Durban.
- The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been deployed to the province to restore and maintain law and order.
- The provincial government is working to address underlying issues that led to the protests, including anti-immigration sentiments and economic concerns.
