South Africa: Further protests likely in Johannesburg in the coming days /update 1

Event

Further protests organized by residents in Alexandra (Johannesburg) are likely to take place in the coming days. Protesters initially planned to launch a march to Sandton on the morning (local time) of Thursday, April 4; however, it was suspended to apply for a permit for the march to take place in the coming days. Unruly protests may however take place if the authorities decide to ban the protest. A heightened security presence, along with transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Protests erupted in Alexandra on April 3, with demonstrators blocking roads in Marlboro and Alexandra near Lenin Drive and Far East Bank Street.

Alexandra residents called for a total shutdown of the area to protest against a perceived lack of response from the police and city officials to prevent illegal squatters from moving into the township. Particularly, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and power officials are accused of not disconnecting power and water to the illegal structures. Residents are also claiming that the local government has failed to solve roadway, housing, and other basic issues.

Advice

Individuals in Johannesburg are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.