By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has expressed serious concern over the threats to disrupt harbour activity and public roads around St Helena Bay on 14 July 2025.
This follows circulated notices suggest that protest organisers intend to block access routes from Paternoster, Vredenburg and Laaiplek from 11:00pm, raising concerns for safety, public order and economic activity.
Fullview learnt that the protest appears to centre around the allocation of fishing rights under the previous administration. These allocations are subject to a legally defined appeals process, which is already under way in several cases.
In response, George made it clear that political pressure or disruptive action will not influence a process that must remain fair, transparent and lawful.
Government cannot and will not allow public roads or national infrastructure to be obstructed by individuals acting outside of due process,” said George. “No cause is advanced by disruption, intimidation or unlawful conduct. These tactics harm the very communities they claim to represent.”
“This Ministry does not operate according to who makes the most noise,” he said. “We operate within the law and in the public interest.
The Minister has written to the Police Commissioner to request immediate clarity on whether the necessary authorisations for protest action were obtained. The Department has called on law enforcement to monitor the situation closely and act decisively if public infrastructure, harbour activity or the rights of others are threatened.
The Department will continue to engage openly and constructively with recognised and representative structures, including traditional leaders, registered co-operatives, and civil society organisations, added George.