South Africa: Protesters gather in front of Clicks pharmacy stores nationwide September 7-11

Event

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have called on people to protest across the country in front of branches of Clicks Pharmacy stores from Monday, September 7, through Friday, September 11. Supporters are reportedly demanding the closure of the retail-led healthcare group's stores nationwide due to alleged racial undertone in one of brand's advertisements. According to media sources, at least two Clicks stores in Alberton (Gauteng province) and Emalahleni (Mpumalanga province) have reportedly been vandalized by demonstrators on Monday and disruptions have been reported in the shopping centers where they are located.

Localized disruption in the vicinity of the stores and disruptions to business services including at shopping malls are possible. A heightened security presence is also likely in the vicinity of any demonstration and clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Those in South Africa are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions and potential disruptions to business services, avoid all protests or demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.