DA lays charges against EFF for incitement of violence

02 March 2016

Following the recent incidents of violence and threats of war by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), it has become clear that the EFF cannot be trusted to bring the change South Africa’s people need. Today, I will be laying criminal charges against the EFF for inciting violence on campuses. This follows after EFF Youth Command leader, Omphile Seleke, posted on Facebook the instructions on how to make a petrol bomb, which was subsequently retweeted by the EFF Student Command at the University of Pretoria. 

This will be the first of many actions the Democratic Alliance will be taking to ensure that the instigators of violence on campus are dealt with through the proper channels and that these type of incidents are regarded in a serious manner. 

South African institutions of higher learning can no longer be the battle ground for people who wish to divide South Africa for narrow political gains. Divisive and violent language will only further aggravate the situation and the EFF and other right-wing organisations will not be allowed to continue in this manner. Incitement of violence and other forms of disruptions undermine the student struggle and threatens to reverse the work done to drive legitimate issues on campus. 

The DA will continue to fight for increased access to opportunities for young people and more inclusive campuses. In doing so we will always maintain our unwavering respect for the rule of law and the Constitution. 

Statement issued by Yusuf Cassim MP, DASO Leader, 2 March 2016