By Akani Nkuna
The government has expressed deep sorrow following the deaths of two people during violent housing protests in Diepkloof, Soweto, on Monday.
Demonstrators, angered by the City of Johannesburg’s (CoJ) failure to develop vacant land, blocked roads, looted trucks, and clashed with police.
Police later raided the hostel in search of stolen goods.
In a statement on Tuesday, Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Nomonde Mnukwa, extended condolences to the victims’ families and called for calm as authorities work to address the housing crisis.
“We strongly condemn the violence and looting that took place in Diepkloof and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the two individuals who lost their lives. Every life lost under such circumstances is one too many, and we deeply mourn this tragedy,” Mnukwa said.
Mnukwa stressed that demonstrations must remain peaceful and lawful.
She warned that criminal acts, violence, or actions that threaten the safety of others cannot be justified under the guise of protest.
“We are confident that law enforcement authorities will conduct a thorough investigation into Monday’s events to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future,” she added.
Mnukwa also urged citizens to protest responsibly and cautioned that violence and destruction not only undermine the legitimacy of genuine grievances but also place innocent lives and livelihoods at risk.
Meanwhile, City of Johannesburg Human Settlements MMC Mlungisi Mabaso has promised Diepkloof residents a forensic investigation into the controversial sale of the Diepkloof Hostel.
The City said it only became aware of the property transaction when its Human Settlements Department attempted to demolish structures for a new development on the site.
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