Leaders of the Diepsloot Community Forum have committed to suspending demonstrations following a meeting with the office of the President in Pretoria today.
After initially being barred from entering South Africa’s official seat of government premises, a delegation of about 14 community leaders was finally granted access.
They had descended on the Union Buildings to give President Cyril Ramaphosa a formal letter of demands from the community.
While the President could not avail himself, his office says a delegation of four top minsters will soon visit the community and engage residents about their concerns.
The ministers of police, justice, home affairs and human settlements have committed to meeting with the frustrated residents, who say crime is wreaking havoc in their community.
This month alone, Gauteng police reported six murders in the area – with residents adamant that increasingly violent crimes are going unreported.
They are blaming a lack of police visibility and illegal foreign nationals for the surge in crime.
Diepsloot Community Leader, Loyiso Toyiya, says while the promise of a delegation of Ministers has left residents hopeful — government’s further inaction will not be tolerated.
Diepsloot residents say they’re done talking and have called for urgent assurances from the President to tackle brazen crime and, what they call, apathetic police officials.
Diepsloot resident Obed Mpoko. says rape and gangsterism are just some of the issues they’re faced with.
Members of the Diepsloot Community Forum are expected to return to Pretoria on Monday, where they’ll receive an update on the Ministers’ scheduled visit. Article by Naomi Kobbie
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