The March and March movement has expressed disappointment over the state’s decision to lay a charge of incitement to commit violence against its founder, Jacintha Ngobese-Zuma, saying authorities should rather be addressing the underlying issues raised by the group.
The charge stems from protests held outside Durban’s Addington Primary School. In addition to the March and March movement, organisations including Operation Dudula and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party have also been charged.
Attorney Xolani Zuma criticised the state’s actions, describing them as unjust and politically motivated.
“It is quite concerning that, post-1994, there are still these gimmicks implemented by the state against innocent citizens,” Zuma said. “Where we are standing here, there are about 27 buildings that are hijacked by God knows who, and the vast majority of those people are illegal immigrants. The question is: what kind of state is this? But those are issues we will be dealing with in court.”
Ngobese-Zuma has denied any wrongdoing in leading the protests and insists her actions were lawful and aimed at highlighting social concerns.
Zuma explained the legal process that lies ahead.
“They are going to take her fingerprints and issue what we call a warning statement. The case will then be referred to the NPA for a decision. Management at the NPA will decide if there’s a case. If there is, they will prosecute. If there isn’t, they will throw the docket away,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ngobese-Zuma has accused police of using stun grenades and a water cannon to disperse protesters during last Friday’s demonstration.
“If standing outside a school, picketing and demanding that the rights of South Africans be protected is instigating violence, then that’s what they call it,” she said. “If standing in front of a gate and saying that 26 children are sitting at home because they don’t have money to go to school is instigating violence, then I’m instigating violence.”
The matter is expected to be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority, which will decide whether formal prosecution will follow.