Statement by The Presidency on marches to the Union Buildings

The Presidency has noted a press release by the organisation ‘Equal Education' suggesting that there is a blanket ban on all marches to the Union Buildings.

The Presidency wishes to place on record that it has not instituted any ban on marches to the Union Buildings.

The Presidency upholds the right of all citizens to freedom of expression and peaceful demonstration. It will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that such rights are exercised within the law and in cooperation with all relevant stakeholders.

Following last year's march by soldiers to the Union Buildings, which ended in a violent confrontation, the Presidency has sought to improve the management of marches to the Union Buildings, working together with the Tshwane Metro and the relevant line function departments.

The Presidency always encourages march organisers to channel whatever issues they may have to the relevant departments. We would encourage people only to march to the Union Buildings as a last resort.

The Presidency remains ready to engage with the parties concerned to ensure that this matter is amicably resolved.

Statement issued by Vusi Mona, Head of Communications in The Presidency, March 16 2010

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