A war of words has erupted between government and March and March ahead of planned June 30 anti-illegal immigration demonstrations, with organisers accusing authorities of focusing on security threats instead of addressing concerns over immigration enforcement and corruption.
A war of words has erupted between government and the organisers of planned anti-illegal immigration demonstrations scheduled for June 30, with protest leaders accusing authorities of focusing on security threats instead of addressing concerns about immigration enforcement, The Mercury has reported.
The dispute intensified after Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia warned that while South Africans have a constitutional right to protest, authorities would act decisively against any form of lawlessness, violence or destruction of property.
Government has already activated extensive security preparations through the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster as the country braces for demonstrations expected in several provinces.
Addressing the media on Monday, Cachalia said the South African Police Service had strengthened operational readiness nationwide and stood prepared to respond to any threats to public order.
