Call for increase in protection of Abahlali activists amid death threats
Amnesty International South Africa has repeated calls for more protection for activists belonging to the shack dwellers movement, Abahlali baseMjondolo.
One of the group's leaders, Nomsa Sizani, was forced to go into hiding after she allegedly began receiving death threats recently.
It was after she challenged government officials in Ekukhanyeni in Mariannhill and called on them to speak to the community about a development.
More than 24 members of the movement have been killed over 14 years - some directly because of their activism.
READ: Activists need more protection, says Amnesty International
To date, only two convictions have been secured.
Last month, the South African Human Rights Commission wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene.
Amnesty's spokesperson Shenilla Mohamed says it's unacceptable for human rights defenders to face constant threats in their fight for justice.
“It is unacceptable that human rights defenders who are determined to improve the lives of poor communities, and who still do not have access to basic rights, are continuously facing threats for fighting for human rights.
“The protection of human rights defenders is paramount to the functioning of any society. The South African police must take these threats seriously and ensure that those responsible for targeting activists face the full force of the justice system. People cannot be left to live in constant fear for their lives simply for exercising their fundamental rights.”
Find us on social media
Follow the ECR Newswatch WhatsApp channel here
