By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Sipho Hlomuka, has ordered a swift investigation into threats made against the family of the Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.
According to Hlomuka, who is also the chairperson of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS) the group of protesters which appeared well organised stormed the private home of the premier and hurled insults and intimidating theatrics at the family.
The incident has caused trauma and fear to family members especially children.
“The Premier is a thick skinned public representative who is able to handle all matters that come with being a public representative. However, to storm a private residence and intimidate children is crossing the line,” said Hlomuka.
While the KZN government was not against protests, the actions of the demonstrators targeting Dube-Ncube’s private residence was an intimidatory tactic and the Provincial Government will deal decisively with those involved.
“Protest action are permitted in terms of our Constitution but memorandums are handed over at state buildings in broad daylight not late at night at someone’s private residence.
“We will be taking steps to protect the rights of children and family member who should not be persecuted just because their parents hold public office.”
Answers will be demanded on this security breach. The traumatised family members are being given psycho-social support to deal with the trauma and insults especially observed by children,” he added.
Hlomuka said police must investigate the legality of this action and whether it has not infringed on the rights of other citizens.
“This action has nefarious motives and warrants proper accountability,” said Hlomuka.
The MEC added that the police investigation will include exploring violations of the Public Gatherings Act and other relevant legislations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also condemned the intimidation of Dube-Ncube and her family in their private home by alleged protesters.
In a statement, the President welcomed the current investigation into the incident in which a group of people made their way to the Premier’s private home under cover of darkness to intimidate the Premier and her family.
Ramaphosa has wished the Premier and her family well in the aftermath of this harassment, and condemned this action in the strongest terms.
The President said the country must condemn and resist any and all attempts by anyone to render society lawless and chaotic.
“The Bill of Rights in our Constitution affirms that everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected, as well as the right to be free from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.
“These rights apply to each and every citizen, including elected leadership or public officials, who choose to serve our nation, and their families.
“These rights must be respected even when people have legitimate issues to raise, and such issues must be raised through the channels that exist within our open democracy,” the President said.