President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a stern warning to any political party that threatens violence leading up to or during the national and provincial elections on May 29th.
This warning comes in response to public threats made by loyalists of former president Jacob Zuma, particularly members of the uMkhonto weSizwe party, who have threatened anarchy and civil war if their party is blocked from participating in the upcoming elections.
In a video that has since gone viral, uMkhonto weSizwe party member Visvin Reddy can be seen seemingly attacking the courts and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
I must make it clear that anyone who is threatening any form of unrest will be arrested. pic.twitter.com/M7v1GISVt0
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) March 7, 2024
President Ramaphosa has taken note of these threats and has emphasised that anyone who incites violence or unrest will be pursued and arrested. He firmly believes that those who make such threats are enemies of democracy and do not belong in the South African community that values stability and the rule of law.
Ramaphosa acknowledges that dissatisfaction with government decisions, including those made by the president, ministers, or the courts, is natural.
However, he stresses that there are appropriate channels for addressing grievances, without resorting to violence. He urges individuals to follow lawful means to express their concerns and complaints.
Reddy has claimed that his comments were taken out of context and that the video was edited. Nevertheless, President Ramaphosa’s warning stands as a strong message against any form of violence or instability during the election period.
The people of South Africa have fought hard for their democracy and do not wish to see it undermined by threats and unrest.
As the country prepares for the upcoming elections, it is crucial for all political parties and citizens to respect the democratic process and engage in peaceful and lawful participation.
President Ramaphosa’s warning serves as a reminder that violence has no place in the democratic journey of South Africa.
