Halala for the Kennedy 12

We see this as a great day for the 12, their families, their movement and the struggle of the poor in South Africa. From day one we as the SDCEA (South Durban Community Environmental Alliance) were suspicious of the so-called charges that were brought against Abahlali comrades; we believed that these were trumped up to destroy the movement of the poor. We as the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance wish to extend our deepest congratulations to our comrades and our brothers in the movement for their steadfast resolve to challenge this injustice since their arrest.

We will continue to stand by the poor no matter what the situation. We have heard in the courts the false evidence presented from some of the witnesses presented and knew this could never stand the test of the truth as it was clear that there was no evidence against any of the accused and that there had been an attempt to frame them.

As SDCEA we believe that as we move forward as activists to challenge the government and big business as the movements many of us will be forced to pay a price to attain a just and equal society. The victory of the Kennedy 12 as well as their movement is a warning to the politicians not to concentrate on power and corruption, but rather to start talking with communities about the issues that affect their lives and work together to improve their lives by providing the necessary resources for the delivery of services.

This victory by the Kennedy 12 gives all of us hope.

Peace,

Desmond D’Sa
South Durban Community Environmental Alliance