DA condemns illegal UCT protests

8 March 2023

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The DA strongly condemns the illegal protests currently underway at the University of Cape Town (UCT). We firmly support the Acting Vice Chancellor’s request that SAPS immediately respond to the matter and bring the protest under control.

The High Court granted an interdict on the 17th of February 2023, barring further violent protests, protecting infrastructure and students who wish to learn without disruption and move about freely on campus without intimidation.

However, today we have seen aggravated disruption and assaults on students. We hope to see the SAPS regain control and protect this institution and its students so learning may continue undisturbed.

Although we acknowledge their right to protest, they must do so peacefully and follow necessary protest action procedure.

Disruptions and vandalism do not contribute to growing an inclusive and conducive environment for learning and we hope that the situation will be remedied soon.

DASO has engaged the DA councillor of the ward in which the university is situated and should concerned parents or students need any assistance, they can contact Councillor Yusuf Mohamed at 072 159 7893.

Issued by Yusuf Mohamed, DA Councillor, Cape Town, 8 March 2023