The Commission fully comprehends the devastating impact of loadshedding/ lack of electricity supply on the lives of people and on the economy of the country, and while all are assured of the right to demonstrate and show dissatisfaction, as provided for in the Constitution, the Commission is concerned by the level of threat and intimidation being communicated in the media, and other platforms as part of the build up to the protest action. If these threats of violence are followed through by supporters of the EFF or other people participating in the march, such may lead to harm and the violation of human rights.
 
The Commission calls on the government and the relevant ministries to ensure that persons who wish to exercise their rights, and who are not supportive of the protest actions of the EFF, are not intimidated or harmed as they go about their lives and livelihoods on 20 March 2023, and to ensure all who have rights and freedoms should be able to exercise these equally.
 
The Commission also calls on law enforcement agencies to continue to protect and serve all who may or many not be part of the protest and to exercise restraint as they marshal protestors on Monday.

ENDS
 
ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Wisani Baloyi – Acting Communications Coordinator Tel: 081 016 8308 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Alucia Sekgathume – External Communications Tel: 082 689 2364 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.