The Acting Chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), Lieutenant General Elias Mawela wants to assure protesters as well as the South African people that measures have been put in place to ensure that people can exercise the democratic rights as they are enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa.
The NATJOINTS is a structure which has been mandated by Cabinet to plan, coordinate and implement all law enforcement, crime combating and other operations relating to safety, security and stability in South Africa.
The NATJOINTS involves various government departments and entities that play a vital role in the country’s safety and stability.
These enforcement agencies, led by the South African Police Service, will be deployed to ensure that public order is maintained during the protest march/demonstrations in all major cities as well as other identified areas throughout the country.
Protestors are reminded that while they have a right to protest or demonstrate, the rights of all in South Africa as well as the laws that govern such protests must be respected. No criminality, including intimidation and any form of lawlessness will be tolerated. We are confident that this call will be adhered to.
It is in the best interests of all parties to work together to avoid unnecessary conflict situations. People who do not follow the correct procedures and the rule of law will be held accountable.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
