http://www.fxi.org.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=210

FXI Condemns scare tactics aimed at surpressing people’s right to protest

MEDIA STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

17 JULY 2012

FXI CONDEMNS SCARE TACTICS AIMED AT SUPPRESSING PEOPLE’S RIGHT TO PROTEST

The Freedom of Expression Institute (FXI) is deeply concerned about the alleged assault on freedom of expression by Umlazi Councillor, Nomzamo Mkhize.
According to reports received by the FXI, Ms Mkhize along with a group of her supporters allegedly assaulted and intimidated a member of the local community, Ms Thabile Ngcobo, on July 15 as Ms Ngcobo was returning from a local community meeting.

Ms Ngcobo was allegedly slapped and kicked while being questioned on why she had attended the meeting. He assailants then also took a blade and cut off a T-shirt she was wearing that was promoting FAMWU (the Farm Workers Union).

While Ms Ngcobo has opened up a case of intimidation and assault, no arrests have been made so far.

The FXI regards these actions as a serious assault on Umlazi residents’ right to demonstrate and protest around the grievances in their community. The alleged actions by the councillor and a few of her supporters were clearly meant to scare some residents away from any protest actions or attempts to discuss relevant grievances in that community.

The FXI calls on the police in Umlazi to pursue the case opened by Ms Ngcobo as a matter of urgency and effect the necessary arrests so that any illegal acts of intimidation and assault may cease immediately.

The FXI further endorses a call on the MEC for Community Safety to urgently intervene in this matter so as to ensure speedy and impartial police action in this case.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT RAYMOND LOUW ON 082 4465155 OR RAASHIED GALANT ON 079 5259866