ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND STABILITY DURING NATIONAL MARCHES
Safety, stability and public confidence took centre stage in Durban today, 30 June, as a high-level intergovernmental delegation convened to assess security operations linked to the nationwide marches currently taking place.
The meeting reaffirmed government's readiness to protect communities, uphold law and order, and respond swiftly to any security threats across eThekwini and surrounding areas.
The strategic engagement brought together the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean MacPherson, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Dr Namane Masemola, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma, eThekwini Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni, as well as senior representatives from provincial government and eThekwini Municipality.
The delegation received comprehensive updates on law enforcement operations linked to the marches, the repatriation process involving undocumented Malawian nationals, and plans to manage the aftermath of the current developments.
Discussions also focused on the status of the Drive-In site, which has been temporarily accommodating Malawian nationals as part of the repatriation process.
Briefing the delegation, Mayor Xaba outlined the City's coordinated response to both the marches and the repatriation programme, highlighting the extensive deployment of law enforcement personnel across eThekwini.
"This is a critical time not only for eThekwini, but for the country as a whole. Our foremost priority is the safety and security of residents, businesses, visitors and everyone participating in today's activities. We have intensified the visibility of law enforcement and strengthened coordination across all agencies to ensure our communities remain safe," said Mayor Xaba.
The Mayor reported that the situation across eThekwini remained stable, with no incidents reported at the time of the briefing.
"Metro Police, the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies are working in close coordination and remain deployed throughout eThekwini. Our officers are on high alert and ready to respond rapidly to any potential threats. We can confidently report that the situation is under control and that monitoring operations remain ongoing," he added.
Minister MacPherson commended the City for its management of the repatriation process.
He highlighted the collaborative and proactive approach adopted by all spheres of government to maintain stability and ensure the effective coordination of operations.
The delegation emphasised that addressing complex social and security challenges requires a united government response.
Stakeholders agreed that continued cooperation, vigilance and coordinated planning will remain essential to protecting communities, maintaining stability and strengthening social cohesion.
The engagement underscored government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, preserving peace and ensuring that communities across eThekwini remain safe, informed and supported throughout this period.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality's Marketing and Communications Directorate
