MPUMALANGA – Mr Fana Vincent Mlombo, chief whip for the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature encouraged communities to say no to violence on July 14.

According to him, the right to protest and express yourself freely as enshrined in the constitution of the Republic of South Africa forms a very crucial part of our country since the dawn of democracy.

“It is a right that comes with a responsibility of ensuring that the protest action is conducted in an orderly and peaceful manner within the confines of the law under which the protester makes sure not to infringe on the rights of other people,” he said.

Ms Zamagambu Memela-Gamede, senior manager of communications for Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, said Mr Mlombo joins a multitude of South Africans in expressing concerns on the recent spates of violent protests that led to looting and damages to both private and public property in some parts of the country.

“It is therefore our duty as members of the Provincial Legislature representing the citizens of our province and constituencies respectively to call upon our communities to add their voice in condemning criminal acts of violence,” she said.

Mr Mlombo applauded the those in the province who have not engaged in criminal activities.

He called upon all citizen to protect their valued infrastructure.

He said these violent activities were a serious threat to food security and people’s livelihood will have a negative impact on the economy of the province and country.

“As a growing democracy we have options that we can take advantage of instead of resorting to violence.

“Let us also exercise our right to participate in elections as a way of adding our voice to the change we would like to see,” Mr Mlombo said.

Therefore he encouraged citizens register to vote on July 31 and August 1 in order to take part in upcoming local government elections later this year.