South Africa: Demonstrations in Durban May 14-15

Event

A Pro-African National Congress (ANC) vigil and demonstration will be held in Durban from Sunday, May 14, through Monday, May 15. On May 14, the vigil is scheduled to begin at Durban City Hall at 14:00 (local time) with a prayer meeting that is expected to continue through the evening. On May 15, the demonstration will begin at 07:00 in the Durban Central Business District (CBD) and will then proceed with the ​following schedule:

• 07:00:  Demonstrators leave Durban City and move towards King Dinizulu Gardens via Anton Lembede (Smith) Street where other protesters will join the demonstration.
• 10:00:  Demonstrators leave King Dinizulu Gardens and move towards the Durban High Court from Dr. Pixlie kaSeme (West) Street, to Yusuf Dadoo (Broad) Street, and to Margret Mncadi (Victoria) Embankment.
• 12:00:  A letter will be presented to a representative at the Durban High Court.
• 13:00:  The demonstration is expected to end.

Context

There has been an escalation in violent protests over the past few weeks and angry residents have taken to the streets over a range of issues, including service delivery, housing shortages, and racial tensions.

South Africa is facing economic headwinds as the currency continues to lose value, and higher borrowing costs mean the government will have less money for investment projects aimed at stimulating the sluggish economy. On April 4, credit rating agency Standard and Poor's downgraded South Africa's credit rating to "junk" status, followed by ratings agency Fitch on Friday, April 7. Anti-government protests have become regular occurrences throughout the country to denounce President Jacob Zuma's perceived poor governance. Several opposition parties in Parliament have tabled a non-confidence vote against the president, which will be debated at a yet-to-be-determined date.

Advice

Individuals present in the country are advised to monitor the situation, to anticipate potential transportation disruptions, and to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.

On a separate note, individuals in the country - particularly in urban areas - are advised to be on guard against high levels of criminal activity and to maintain a low profile at all times. Be particularly vigilant after dusk and avoid traveling on foot after nightfall. Criminals may be armed; do not resist if confronted and do not look your attacker(s) directly in the eye. Drive with windows closed, doors locked, and all personal possessions hidden from sight.