Rédaction Africa Links 24 with sabcnews.com
Published on 2024-01-29 18:45:01
The Human Rights Commission recently released a report on the 2021 unrest in South Africa, stating that there is no evidence linking the violence to the imprisonment of former president Jacob Zuma for contempt of court. The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights also released their findings on the matter in Durban. The unrest, which resulted in over 350 deaths, also caused significant economic disruptions.
According to the report, the 2021 unrest was well orchestrated, with major highways and critical economic routes being blocked, and various buildings being looted and set on fire. While the incidents coincided with Zuma’s incarceration, there is no direct evidence linking the two. The report also highlighted that the unrest was fuelled by the deep inequality in South African society, as well as the economic hardships brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Human Rights Commission made recommendations for the government to prevent a recurrence of the unrest and to hold the government accountable. Additionally, its acting chairperson, Fatima Chohan, called on ordinary South Africans to sign a pledge to participate in a program called Shine – Social Harmony through National Effort. This program aims to bring harmony into people’s lives through positive dialogue and learning.
The government has been given 60 days to respond to the reports. KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi stated that they have already started implementing the recommendations that emerged shortly after the unrest. Both reports highlight the need for systemic change in South Africa to address inequality and uplift communities affected by economic hardships. Further action is needed to prevent future instances of unrest and to promote social harmony and dialogue within the country.
