14 Mar 2019 | 03:22 PM UTC
South Africa: Protest in Nelson Mandela Bay March 14
Residents protest lack of municipal services in Nelson Mandela Bay settlement March 14; further protests possible in the coming weeks
Event
A demonstration was reported in Nelson Mandela Bay municipality (Eastern Cape province) on Thursday, March 14, to denounce the lack of city services in the Wells Estate area. Hundreds of residents of Wells Estate, an informal settlement, gathered at the municipal building to demand that the local government ensure that water, electricity, and plumbing are provided to the area. Local sources indicate protesters threatened to stage additional demonstrations if their demands are not met. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any demonstration.
Context
On March 13, protesters blocked roads in the Port Elizabeth area of Nelson Mandela Bay to protest water and electricity service delivery. According to local monitors, the number of service delivery demonstrations has increased in recent years, with violent clashes between protesters and police becoming more frequent.
Advice
Individuals in Nelson Mandela Bay are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate traffic disruptions, including road closures and increased congestion, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
