South Africa: Pro-Palestinian demonstrations planned in Durban and Pietermartizburg, May 21

Event

Pro-Palestinian activists plan to protest at the Durban Esplanade and Port of Durban from 07:00, May 21, to oppose the docking of an Israeli ship. Furthermore, members belonging to the South African Transport & Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) will boycott the offloading of the ship's cargo, also May 21. According to unconfirmed reports, South Africa's port authority, Transnet, has been informed of this protest. It is unclear whether authorities have granted permission for its commencement.

Additionally, other Pro-Palestinian demonstrations will occur in several neighborhoods in Durban and surrounding regions 14:45-17:00, May 21. Locations for these include St Thomas Road, Sparks Road, Westville, Umdoni, Bluff, Umhlanga, Durban North, Windemere, Sherwood, and Argyle Road. A protest is also scheduled in Pietermaritzburg; however, the time of this event is unconfirmed. Additional protests outside Durban and Pietermaritzburg are possible. Gatherings are likely to involve dozens to a few hundred activists.

Although the demonstrations are likely to be peaceful, security personnel will likely monitor the demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be discounted; however, similar protests of this nature have occurred without notable incident. Localized transport disruptions are likely. Disruptions at the Port of Durban are possible.

Advice

Exercise caution and avoid all gatherings as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the vicinity of any gatherings. Plan for possible disruptions at the Port of Durban.