South African President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed the military Monday to restore law and order after days of violent protests and mass looting following the imprisonment of former leader Jacob Zuma. The latest round of social unrest is some of the worst since the mid-1990s.
The widespread looting and social unrest were triggered by last week’s incarceration of former President Zuma. Ramaphosa addressed the nation Monday evening, pleading for calm and for looters to consider the consequences of their actions.
“We are therefore mobilizing all available resources and capabilities to restore order,” Ramaphosa told the nation.
“Let me be clear: we will take action to protect every person in this country against the threat of violence, intimidation, theft, and looting.”
“What we are witnessing now are opportunistic acts of criminality,” the president said. He also warned that unrest could undermine efforts to quell the virus pandemic.
“Our vaccination program has been severely disrupted just as it is gaining momentum.”
At least they have the common sense to know a riot when they see it. And understand the “opportunist acts of criminal activity”
I have no doubt Hollywood and BLM will be there to protest the military and stand up for the people. Jay Z is on his way.