ANC MUST MOVE MALEMA HEARINGS FROM JOBURG CBD

While there will be a week's respite before the ANC's disciplinary committee meets again to consider charges against ANCYL President Julius Malema, I am deeply concerned that it will still be held at Luthuli House, thereby opening the way for disruptive demonstrations yet again.

According to reports, the disciplinary committee will sit on Sunday 11 September for three days. We can therefore expect more mayhem that will disrupt businesses and threaten ordinary life in the inner city.

Last week two sittings of the Gauteng Legislature were in danger of being cancelled because members had difficulty in accessing the building.

This would have been an appalling victory for mob rule. Make no mistake - this type of violent street protest is a serious threat to democracy.

The layers of barbed wire around Beyers Naude Square reminded me of a city under wartime siege.

I sympathise with the law firm that is seeking an interdict against further Malema hearings in the CBD as they lost business because clients refused to come to their inner city offices.

I appeal to the ANC to change the venue to a place where demonstrations will not cause inconvenience to ordinary citizens.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom MPL, DA Gauteng Caucus Leader, September 4 2011

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