South Africa, Eswatini: COSATU calls for protests at shared border crossings between South Africa and Eswatini, Sept. 9

Event

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) plans to protest at several border crossings between South Africa and Eswatini, Sept. 9. The action forms part of a 'Global Week of Action on Swaziland' in support of pro-democracy protesters and to demand political reforms. Gatherings are scheduled at the Matsamo/Jeppes Reef, Ngwenya/Oshoek, and Lavumisa/Golela crossings. It is not clear what time the demonstrations will occur or how long they will last. Dozens to a few hundred people could participate in the gatherings.

Protests are also possible in Eswatini during the week of action. Gatherings could occur in major urban centers, along prominent routes, or near government buildings. Police are likely to deploy to and disperse any protests that occur. In South Africa, additional gatherings are possible near the High Commission of The Kingdom of Eswatini in Arcadia, Tshwane (Pretoria), and the Consulate of The Kingdom of Eswatini in Parktown, Johannesburg. Police will likely deploy to monitor gatherings. Violence is unlikely. Localized road travel delays are likely near all protest sites. Depending on the size of the border crossing protests, disruptions to cross-border movement, including passenger and cargo transport, may occur.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Exercise caution near possible protest sites. Plan for road travel delays, particularly at border crossings, Sept. 9. Heed the directives of the local authorities.