26 June 2012

The Democratic Left Front (DLF) joins the Unemployed People’s Movement (UPM) and Abahlali baseMjondolo (AbM) in condemning the South African Police Services for their callous act of shooting unarmed community activists in Umlazi earlier this evening. This shooting was not even triggered by any provocation of the police or any public violence whatsoever. The police shot three comrades of the UPM with live rounds as the community were dispersing from a mass community meeting. Even more worrying is that two of the injured comrades are missing. This raises serious concern about their security and well-being. The UPM has admirably sought emergency medical treatment for the one injured comrade who could be located.

An estimated 2,000 people had gathered at the local hall to discuss an intended peaceful occupation of the local ANC councillor’s office as part of the ongoing community struggles and demands for service delivery, jobs and access to land. Clearly, this is a case of sustained state repression against community protests and is a violation of basic rights to freedoms of assembly, speech and association.

In consultation with the community, the UPM and AbM, the DLF will seek legal advice and consider appropriate legal action as part of defensive measures whilst. The DLF calls on the Umlazi Ward 88 community, the UPM and AbM to remain united in their struggles for a decent life, and not to be intimated by police repression. Such sustained disciplined mass struggles are the ultimate key to win community demands as well as expose and defeat police repression.

ENDS

FOR COMMENTS, CONTACT:

Bheki Buthelezi (UPM & DLF) – 072 639 9893

Mazibuko K. Jara (DLF) – 083 651 0271

Athish Kirun (DLF) – 078 257 3764

Ayanda Kota (UPM & DLF) - 078 625 6462

Mnikelo Ndabankulu (AbM) - 081 309 5485

China Ngubane (DLF & Right to Know Campaign) – 072 651 9790