Conflicts & War

Dozens arrested in South Africa protests

Johannesburg, Mar 20 (EFE).- Dozens of people have been arrested during left-wing protests in South Africa calling for the president, Cyril Ramaphosa, to step down.

Police officials said 87 people were arrested during the demonstrations organized by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a radical left-wing group and the third force in South African politics, along with the Saftu federation of unions.

The formations, who want Ramaphosa to resign, slated the rallies to protest high unemployment rates in the country, which although continued to fall in 2022 still remain at 32.7%.

They are also highlighting the severe energy crisis being suffered by South Africans, whose economy has felt the effects of repeated blackouts in the last year due to loadshedding on the poorly equipped network, which is almost entirely dependent on state company Eskom.

Behind the energy crisis are other factors including a surge in demand for electricity, crime and corruption.

In a statement Monday, the president warned against the protests leading to unrest in the country.

“One person’s right to protest should in no way infringe on any other person’s right to life and dignity. It should not impede their freedom of movement and association, or their right to engage in their trade or profession without hindrance.”EFE

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