eThekwini residents have been encouraged to live harmoniously together and not instigate racial tensions in communities following civil unrest in the province. eThekwini Mayor Kaunda urged residents to desist from behaviour which may spark racial tensions. Mayor Kaunda and Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu engaged with communities where there were reports of racial tensions which were sparked by the unrest. These areas included Phoenix, Durban North, Hillcrest, Montclair and Isipingo.

Mayor Kaunda urged communities to allow free movement of people in areas that had been barricaded. “We understand that barricades were erected to protect properties and businesses around the City. That must be commended. However, we cannot sustain barricades because they are beginning to spark racial tensions among residents. We are not saying you must stop monitoring the situation or stop being vigilant. However, you must work with the police to assess the security risk and work out a plan that is within the ambit of the law.

This includes obtaining guidelines for establishing a vehicle checkpoint from the relevant station commander before setting it up,” he said. Mayor Kaunda encouraged community leaders to facilitate dialogue to promote social cohesion among residents. He applauded residents that initiated clean-up initiatives in their communities. Mayor Kaunda also engaged with captains of industries and potential investors to reassure them that eThekwini is working collectively with its stakeholders to restore stability and to rebuild the local economy.

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