The South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken to calm his nation after riots broke out in many areas, with violence and looting, some of it possibly racially motivated. This comes after the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma.
Some points from the speech, although not comprehensive:
- 131 cases of murder are being investigated.
- 118 incidents of public violence. Over 2000 arrests. Peace is slowly returning. Protests have cost billions and billions. 161 malls and shopping centers. 11 warehouses, 8 factories, not including damage to roads and other infrastructure.
- The government was poorly prepared for an orchestrated campaign of violence of this nature. They did not have the capabilities and the plans in place to respond swiftly and decisively.
- Once additional security personnel was deployed they were able to quickly secure calm in affected areas. Priorities are to stabilize the country and secure essential supplies and infrastructure. Also to provide relief, support, recovery, and rebuilding and encourage citizens in defense of their lives.
- 25,000 members of the South African Defense Force have been deployed to support the police.
Steady progress is being made to secure logistics infrastructure.
Watch the full video below:
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he hopes to prevent enacting a state of emergency to keep citizens from losing their liberties, if at all possible.
“We will find those who have instigated this violence, they will be held accountable because we will not allow anyone in our country to destabilize it and get away with it.”
“The effects of this violence will be felt by all South Africans for weeks to come.”
“The violence and destruction have done enormous damage to our economy as we recover from the Coronavirus pandemic.”
The president wrapped the long speech up by saying “may God bless South Africa and continue to protect her people”.
Updates to come of this developing story.
