South Africa: Protests in support of former president likely in KwaZulu-Natal Province through mid-July

Event

Protests in support of incarcerated former President Jacob Zuma are likely to persist across KwaZulu-Natal Province through at least July 12. Protesters have gathered regularly since Zuma was arrested at Nkandla and jailed in Estcourt, July 7. Gatherings and roadblocks have occurred in and near various cities and towns, including Durban, Ballito, Nkandla, and Richards Bay; gatherings near informal settlements have occurred. Protesters have also blocked primary and secondary road routes, including the N2 and N3.

These aforementioned areas are likely to experience further disruptive protests in the coming days and almost certainly until lawyers representing Zuma appeal his jail sentence at the Constitutional Court, July 12. Gatherings are also likely in Estcourt near the prison complex where Zuma is incarcerated. A continuation and possible escalation in protest activity is likely if the July 12 appeal is dismissed. Authorities are likely to deploy security and traffic management personnel to areas where protests are occurring and previous protest hotspots, such as Nkandla. Ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and the police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or if protests escalate. Protesters may also engage in acts of public violence, including looting.

Context

Zuma was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment after being found guilty of contempt of court, June 29. He was arrested late July 7 and is currently incarcerated at the Estcourt Police Station. An appeal to the Pietermaritzburg High Court to overturn the warrant of execution for his arrest was dismissed, July 7. Zuma will remain in jail until his appeal is heard by the Constitutional Court, July 12. Supporters of Zuma have denounced the sentencing and are likely to continue to protest until he is released. Protest activity is likely to concentrate in KwaZulu-Natal; however, protests outside of the province are also possible.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Liaise with trusted contacts for further information on planned and actual protest areas. Consider alternative routes around impact areas. Plan for disruptions to both general travel and the transport of freight. Reconfirm the status of all road routes in the coming days before travel. Heed the directives of the local authorities. Reconfirm all ground public transport services that operate in or through the province before travel.

Resources

i-traffic KZN (Twitter)
ECR Traffic (Twitter)